A valuable technique for femoral stem revision in total hip replacement: The in-cement revision - A case series and technical note.

Abstract

Revision of a cemented femoral stem can be a challenging procedure. We present a series of cases utilising the "In-cement" revision, whereby the same size stem is introduced into the original cement mantle, without additional cementing. It requires a stable cement mantle in the correct version. We describe the technique and present a review of 23 revision total hip replacements performed over a 5 year period. At average follow-up of 67 months (12-128 months), the overall survivorship was 91.3% with no patient requiring re-revision for stem loosening or mechanical failure. Two patients required re-revision for infection and one of those patients is now deceased. No further operations were required in 21 patients. The "In-cement" revision can be a valuable technique for the revision arthroplasty surgeon. Early results suggest this is a safe and effective technique in the appropriate patient.