Current trends in primary hip arthroplasty: Short stem prostheses

Over 500,000 total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures were performed in 2008 with cementless hip stems, in both straight and tapered stem designs, making the largest contribution.

Newer developments and concepts are more widely used in Europe, including short cementless stems in hip replacements, which have seen an increase of over 40% in the past 12 months.

There is no doubt that the demographics of joint replacement are changing. Expectations regarding hip replacement are increasing, along with the increasing number of younger, more active patients. Such changes require innovation to provide the most effective treatment pathway for best patient outcome. As a result we are seeing growing interest in less invasive surgical approaches to facilitate rehabilitation and reductions in hospital stay. Prosthesis designs are addressing these changes with more bone-preserving implants which are becoming increasingly popular to facilitate rehabilitation and fast-track surgery.

Benefits of a shorter stem prosthesis

• Continues the positive experiences made with cementless, proximally loaded stems.
• Allows implantation with conservative treatment of the bone in the femoral neck and in the greater trochanter region, preserving the bone.
• Less soft tissue and muscle disruption particularly beneficial in younger, active patients with good bone structure.
• Facilitates use with ASI and less invasive approaches.
• Extends the patient treatment pathway - bone preservation facilitates easier future revision surgery.
   

Additional information:

Taperloc™ Microplasty

<< back