[Computer-assisted experimental implantation technique for comparative quality assessment of various cementation...

For the anchorage of femoral prosthesis stems in total hip arthroplasty, various cement application techniques are used. Experimental comparison of these techniques requires a set-up in which only the cementing technique itself is tested. We used a computer-controlled implantation device based on a milling machine and standardized artificial femur models. The stems are reproducibly positioned by the machine and any influence of manual positioning during the implantation is excluded. The results can be evaluated macroscopically and radiologically with no interference by disturbing bone--with sufficient sensitivity to objectify differences in cement quality. The increase in pressure in the peripheral medullary cavity, which is responsible for the embolisation, can be determined experimentally for the individual cementing technique. The experimental implantation device described enables a standardized comparison of various cementing techniques.