Evaluation of a Porous Tantalum Uncemented Acetabular Cup in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty

Long-term survival of the acetabular component in revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) is determined by initial implant stability and bone ingrowth. Highly porous Trabecular Metal (TM, Zimmer, Inc, Warsaw, Ind) facilitates ingrowth and may be an ideal material for revision THA. The outcome and survivorship of a TM, nonmodular, uncemented acetabular cup were assessed in 60 consecutive patients undergoing revision THA (mean follow-up, 42 months; range, 14-68 months). Most (55/60) acetabular cups were implanted without screw fixation. Mean Harris Hips Scores improved from 74.8 preoperatively to 94.4 at last follow-up. Serial radiographs demonstrated excellent bone apposition and bone graft incorporation. Complications were limited to 7 cases of dislocation and 1 revision for aseptic loosening. The TM acetabular cup appears suitable for use in revision THA and warrants further study.