COMPARISON OF CEMENTING TECHNIQUES IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

Abstract

The strength of bone cement interface is determined by the depth of penetration of cement into bone. The strength of the bone cement interface is an important factor in the long term survival of cemented arthroplasty. Aseptic loosening is relatively rare in cemented total knee arthroplasty but when it occurs it usually affects the tibia.

We analysed the quality of cementation in fifty consecutive total knee arthroplasties performed by two surgeons (N C L Giles and A J Timperley) using different cementing techniques.

The depth of penetration of cement into the proximal tibia was measured by an independent observer. The cement penetration was significantly greater using a suction technique when compared to a cement gun injection technique.