Removing a well-fixed nonmodular large-bearing cementless acetabular component: a simple modification of an existing removal device.

Abstract

Removing well-fixed cementless acetabular components while minimizing bone loss has been facilitated by the use of a removal device featuring sharp curved gouges, specific to the outside diameter of the existing acetabular shell, mated to a femoral head designed to sit inside the acetabular liner. Nonmodular acetabular components with inner bearing diameters greater than 36 mm are to date not accommodated by femoral head sizes in this system. A simple modification, placement of a bipolar head matching the inner diameter of the fixed shell, allows use of this removal device for nonmodular shells.