[Effect of socket preparation on primary stability of an elliptical acetabular component]

The aim of this investigation was to examine, with the aid of a valid micrometric measuring system, the initial stability of an elliptical press-fit acetabular component with regard to the size of the reamer used to prepare the socket, and the depth of reaming. All 10 implanted cups showed marked movement (> 500 microns) at the first loading after implantation. Only the implant with a press-fit of 1 mm and a reaming depth of 2 mm showed small elastic micromovement (< 130 microns) at all three measuring points during cyclic loading. The results indicate that press fit and stability need to be optimized using adequate surgical instrumentation and techniques, and that it is necessary to develop new methods to optimize the cementless anchorage of acetabular components.