The new spongiosa-hip-joint-endoprosthesis (SHEP)

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• The Spongiosa Hip Endo-Prosthesis (SHEP) system, developed by the author and manufactured by Howmedica, has been in clinical use since 1987.
• It features a hollow-stem prosthesis with a microporous surface and a cement-free implantation technique.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical efficacy and bone integration of the SHEP cement-free hip endoprosthesis system.
• To assess the biomechanical properties and bone regeneration following implantation.

Main Methods:

• Implantation of the SHEP system in primary and revision hip osteoarthritis surgeries.
• Utilizing endogenous or homologous spongiosa to fill prosthesis voids.
• Biomechanical endurance testing, scintigraphy, video analysis, and microscopic examination of bone-implant interfaces.

Main Results:

• Over 360 SHEP prostheses implanted with a 1/3 revision rate.
• Biomechanical tests exceeded statutory requirements.
• Radiological and microscopic analyses demonstrated significant bony regeneration, integration, and vascularization around the prosthesis.

Conclusions:

• The SHEP system facilitates cement-free hip arthroplasty.
• The prosthesis promotes robust bone ingrowth and demonstrates excellent biomechanical performance.
• This system shows promising results for treating hip osteoarthritis.