Abstract
The purpose of the study was to undertake a radiological and clinical comparison of uncemented tibial base-plate fixation with porous or hydroxyapatite coating. Knees were examined radiologically according to Knee Society Guidelines with image intensifier screening and spot films to highlight the bone prosthesis interface. Clinical assessment was performed using the Knee Society Clinical Rating.
Hydroxyapatite components were found to have significantly less radiolucent lines than porous coated. Seventy three percent of hydroxyapatite baseplates versus 28% of porous coated baseplates showed no radiolucent lines. All lucent lines in both groups appeared stable with a sclerotic margin and did not appear to be progressive or associated with component loosening. No knees showed any radiolucent lines around the stem in either group. Clinical assessment showed no significant difference between hydroxyapatite and porous coated components.
If cementless fixation is to be utilised on the tibial side in knee replacement advantage should be taken of hydroxyapatite augmentation of the component.
Correspondence should be addressed to the editorial secretary: Associate Professor Jean-Claude Theis, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dunedin Hospital, Private Bag 1921, Dunedin, New Zealand.
