Ten-year results of cemented Weller-type total hip arthroplasties. Analysis using different definitions of failure

The first 100 consecutive cemented Weller-type total hip arthroplasties carried out between 1976 and 1977 were reexamined. Clinical analysis of 43 implants with more than 10 years follow-up showed that results were excellent in 21 patients (49%), good in 13 (30%), fair in 7 (16%) and poor in 2 (5%). Radiographic analysis revealed 33 (87%) stable femoral and 31 (81%) stable acetabular components. Statistical survivorship analysis of all 100 implants produced a probability of reoperation of 6.2%, a probability of radiographic implant loosening of 28.2% and a probability of radiographic loosening with clinical symptoms of 7.6%. The definition of failure should be "radiographic loosening of the prosthesis with clinical symptoms" because this evaluation seems to have the best clinical relevance. Concerning the fact that the cement fixation was not performed to today's standard, the results after more than 10 years with this total hip system (Weller long stem) are sufficient.