Abstract
Aseptic loosening which may lead to osteolysis and massive loss of bone, remains the major cause of failure after total hip arthroplasty. Reconstruction of acetabular bone stock defects by means of bone grafting is mandatory to create a stable construct to support the cup, recreate anatomy, and restore lower limb length. Numerous classification systems for acetabular bone stock deficiencies have been recommended to date. The one proposed by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) is the most comprehensive and most consistent. This system classifies acetabular defects into segmental (type 1), cavitary (type 2), combined segmental and cavitary (type 3), pelvic dissociation (type 4), and hip fusion (type 5).
The aim of this study is to present a long term review of our experience with reconstruction of acetabular bone stock deficiencies in conjugation with revision hip arthroplasties using bone grafting, based on the AAOS classification system.
Between 1987 and 1998, 88 revisions using bone grafting to reconstruct acetabular bone stock defects were performed. Of them 4 patients were classified as type 1, 47 as type 2, 29 – type 3, and 8 as type 4. The mean follow-up period was 8 years (range: 2–3 years).
The mean Haris Hip Score improved from 35 points preoperatively to 75 postoperatively. All patients improved.
The complications included nonunion in 5 cases, joint instability in 6 cases, graft lysis in one case, and neurologic injury in one case. Five cups were considered radiographicaly loose. One case was infected.
The abstracts were prepared by Professor Jegan Krishnan. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park 5047, Australia.
