Abstract
In this report, porous tantalum was used to achieve abductor tendon reattachment to structural allograft of the proximal femur in salvage reconstruction of a failed total hip arthroplasty.
In each case, a porous tantalum segment with trapezoidal cross section was fixed to a dovetail joint of complementary geometry cut into the lateral greater trochanter. Fixation of the porous tantalum to the allograft was supplemented with polymethylmethacrylate cement. Residual abductors were mobilized from the surrounding soft tissues and secured against the porous tantalum segment with a short greater trochanteric reattachment device and cables.
Patients were followed up at 73 and 80 months. Harris Hip Scores of 74 and 80 respectively were found. Both were unlimited community ambulators without support, had negative Trendelenberg signs, and were satisfied with the clinical outcomes.
This preliminary experience suggests that porous tantalum has potential application in cases of severe proximal femoral bone loss involving abductor deficiency.
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