Abstract
Study Aims The purpose of this study is to determine whether the cement mantle produced when a suction cement technique is used leads improved radiological results in the medium term.
Methods 74 patients who had a cemented total knee replacement were prospectively studied. In 51 patients the cement was applied in a standard fashion. In 23 patients an intraosseous cannula was used to apply suction within the bone to improve cement penetration. The cannula was inserted into the medial femoral condyle and the medial tibial plateau prior to the bone preparation to vent both bones. Suction is applied to help dry the cancellous surface and draw the cement into the bone.
The radiological appearance of the tibial components were prospectively examined to for the appearance of bone lysis.
Conclusion This study shows that this technique produces superior radiological appearances in the medium term, which may lead to longer implant survival.
A previously published study has shown that if total knee replacement is performed without a tourniquet but using the suction cement technique an excellent cement mantle can reliably be produced.
Correspondence should be addressed to Roger Smith, Honorary Secretary, BASK c/o Royal College of Surgeons, 35 – 43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN
