Introduction: Prevalence of femoral neck fracture in resurfacing hip arthroplasty continues to question if failure is technique-related or due to the inherent bone quality. This study aimed to correlate cement penetration profile during resurfacing hip with inherent bone density. The hypothesis is that osteoporotic bone is unable to support the prosthesis leading to fatigue failure. Methods: Fifteen patients scheduled for total hip replacement (THR) were recruited to undergo resurfacing arthroplasty prior to THR. Each patient was implanted with a resurfacing femoral component (BHR, Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN). Antibiotic simplex cement was inserted one minute after mixing at 18°C to fill 10% of the femoral component volume. The femoral head-implant section was removed and kept in buffered formalin. The patients then proceeded with standard THR. The femoral head-cement-prosthesis section was separated using electrical discharge (ED) machining technique and CT-scanned. The depth and volume of cement penetration were measured from the CT scans and correlated with femoral neck bone densities. Results: Cement penetration was compared for three groups of bone density: normal, osteopenic, osteoporotic. Average cement thickness were found to be 0.36 ± 0.16mm (proximal), 0.28 ± 0.11 mm (centre) and 0.12 ± 0.05 mm. During hip resurfacing, cement is forced into the porous structure, e.g. the trabeculae and airspaces when the femoral component is fixed onto the head of the femur. In normal bone, the trabeculae is dense and air spaces occupy a small volume of the bone. Greater cement penetration was expected in osteopenic and osteoporotic bones. However, no significant difference was found between cement thickness and volume against inherent patient bone density (p> 0.05). High viscosity of the cement may have prevented more cement to penetrate the bone. While the exterior cortex of the femoral head is strengthened by a cement layer, the interior structure of the femoral neck is still susceptible to fracture at high loads. In addition, increased bone necrosis due to the exothermic reaction during cement fixation may predispose patients to fracture. Discussion: Resurfacing hip replacement is a viable technique if the fracture risk can be reduced by gaining the best possible cement penetration. This would provide continuous cement stiffness with the bone

3-D finite element model of a resurfaced femoral head was composed. Five configurations of cement layer were analyzed and the transient heat transfer analysis during cement polymerization was performed. Peak temperature at the bone-cement interface temperature was lower than 40 oC when there was no or 1.5 mm cement penetration but reached 54 oC and 74 oC with 6 mm penetration and 6 mm penetration plus a cement –filled cyst of 1 cm3, respectively. With deep cement penetration, and a large cement-filled cyst, the peak temperatures exceeded bone thermal osteonecrosis at 55 oC. To evaluate using a finite element analysis model, the possibility of bone thermal necrosis secondary to cement in resurfacing arthroplasty of the hip. With deep cement penetration, and the presence of a large cement-filled cyst, the peak temperatures were in the range of bone thermal osteonecrosis 55 oC. Cementing technique in resurfacing arthroplasty should strive to strike a balance between fixation and avoiding bone thermal necrosis by excessive cement penetration. This information could explain why femoral head cysts > 1cm are a risk factor for femoral loosening after resurfacing arthroplasty and excessive cement penetration could lead to femoral neck fracture. 3-D finite element model of a hemispherical resurfaced femoral head was composed of a metal shell with a diameter of 46 mm. Five configurations of cement layer were analyzed a) no penetration into the bone, b) 1.5 mm penetration, c) 6 mm penetration, d) 6 mm penetration and a 1 cm3 cement filled cyst, and e) 6 mm penetration and 2 cm3 cement-filled cyst. The transient heat transfer analysis during cement polymerization was performed in a series of time steps. The temperature within the bone and cement was lower than 40 oC when there was no or 1.5 mm cement penetration into the femoral head. In contrast, the peak temperature at the bone-cement interface reached 54 oC and 74 oC and 63 oC with 6 mm penetration and 6 mm penetration plus a cement –filled cyst of 1 cm3, respectively

Introduction: One of the most common complications following total joint surgery is aseptic loosening. Improving the bone-cement interlock may increase implant longevity. An ideally prepared bony surface is dry; clean; free from marrow, fat and debris; free from active bleeding; and free from micro-organisms. Lavage removes debris, blood and fat from the interstices of the bone surface so as to allow optimal penetration of the cement. The hypothesis that we investigated in this study was that lavage with a detergent solution obtains a greater depth of cement penetration into bone compared with lavage using 0.9% saline, hydrogen peroxide or an alcohol solution. Methods: The cancellous bone of ovine femoral condyles were cut into 10×10×13mm blocks. Lavage solutions were delivered via a pulsatile system and directed towards one side of the bone block. All blocks were swabbed dry. A high viscosity cement was manually mixed and applied to the sandblasted surface of titanium alloy plate (10×10mm, weight 0.9g ±0.01g). The titanium plate and cement were placed on the irrigated bone block, and a known weight applied to achieve pressurisation. Time, temperature and method were controlled. The prosthesis-cement-bone composite was sectioned perpendicularly, and image analysis used to quantify penetration depths. 10 readings were recorded per block with 6 blocks per lavage group. Results: Cancellous bone porosity averaged 75.2% (±4.0) . The mean penetration depth in the saline group averaged 3.39mm (± 0.77); 3.04mm (± 0.59) using a 2% alcohol solution; 3.33mm (±0.79) using a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution; and 5.41mm (± 1.30) when using the detergent lavage. There was no significant difference in cement penetration depth between hydrogen peroxide and saline irrigation (p> 0.05), nor with hydrogen peroxide and alcohol irrigation (p> 0.05). Irrigation with saline however, afforded statistically superior cement penetration than that of alcohol lavage (p < 0.012). Irrigation with detergent solution demonstrated significantly greater depth of penetration than all three other lavage groups (saline p< 0.05; alcohol p< 0.05; hydrogen peroxide p< 0.05). Discussion: Detergents can physically remove particulate matter and emulsify and remove fats, thereby acting to maximise porosity of the cancellous bone network and optimise space for occupation by intruding cement. This study has proven the ability of a detergent solution to provide a clean, debris free cancellous network, which consequently provides a significantly greater depth of cement penetration than other commonly used irrigating agents. It was noted that cement penetration into cancellous bone followed the line and depth of cleaning from lavage. In conclusion, the hypothesis can be accepted, and lavage with a detergent solution affords a statistically greater depth of cement penetration into bone than that of the universally used 0.9% saline lavage

The adequacy of cement mantles around some impaction-grafting systems has been criticised yet good clinical results have been reported. This study investigates this contradiction by asking. Does cement mantle thickness affect cement penetration depth?. Does cement mantle thickness affect early mechanical stability?. Twelve artificial femora were prepared to simulate cavitary defects. Porcine cancellous bone was morselized. The defect was reconstructed by impaction grafting, using a size 0, 1 or 2 tamp. Bone cement was injected, and a size 0, 1 or 2 Exeter stem inserted. By using all nine tamp/prosthesis combinations, 0–4 mm thick cement mantles were produced. Femora were positioned in a testing machine and loaded with 2500 cycles of 2500 N. Prosthesis subsidence and retroversion were measured. Each femur was sliced transversely and the sections digitised. Solid cement mantle thickness and cement penetration depth were measured using image analysis. Correlation analysis was used to find if tamp/stem mismatch (nominal mantle thickness) influenced actual solid mantle thickness and cement penetration. We then analysed if tamp size, stem size, solid mantle thickness or cement penetration determined stem subsidence and retroversion. Cement mantles were produced with an average thickness of 1.7–2.2 mm, with largest variations proximally (1.5–2.8 mm). Average cement penetration was 0.3–2.0 mm, with largest variations proximally (0.4–3.5 mm). Thicker solid mantles gave less penetration (r=−0.62). Stem subsidence ranged from 0.4–2.5 mm and correlated significantly with tamp size (r=0.59, p< .05). Better correlations were found with solid mantle thickness (r=0.90, p< 0.05) and cement penetration depth (r=−0.81). Stem retroversion ranged from 0.1–2.0 degrees and correlated with stem size (r=−0.53) but not with tamp size. Tamp/stem mismatch determined the thickness of the solid cement mantle around impaction-grafted stems, and thinner mantles were associated with deeper cement penetration. Thinner mantles and deeper penetration were associated with reduced stem subsidence. Stem retroversion was associated with stem size only, and larger for thinner stems. Thinner cement mantles will therefore be associated with deeper penetration and reduced stem subsidence upon loading. This association may explain the good long-term results of impaction-grafted Exeter stems, despite deficient solid cement mantles

Objective: The adequacy of the cement mantle around various designs of impaction-grafted stems has been compared and deemed inadequate around the Exeter system. Yet, good clinical results have been reported. The conventional wisdom of solid cement mantles has been also been questioned in recent reports by the low migration and high survival rates of stems inserted with a very thin cement mantle – the so called ‘French paradox’. We performed this study specifically to address two questions. Does cement mantle thickness affect cement penetration depth during impaction grafting? and. Does cement mantle thickness affect the early mechanical stability?. Materials and Methods: 12 composite femurs were prepared to mimic cavitary defect. Impaction grafting was done with morcellized freshly frozen porcine femoral condyles using Exeter X-change system. The size of tamp and prosthesis were independently varied creating tamp/stem mismatch to produce cement mantles with a nominal thickness of 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 mm. Cyclical loading was done at 1 Hz for 2500 cycles at 2500 N. From the displacement data measured by 6 linear displacement transducers we calculated subsidence and retroversion. The solid cement mantle and the penetration depth into the graft were then measured along 16 points in each cut section of the femurs done at 1.5 cm intervals. Results: There was a high correlation between tamp/stem mismatch (nominal mantle thickness) and actual mantle thickness (r=0.84). Average cement penetration into the graft for each prosthesis varied between 0.3 and 2.0 mm. Largest variations were proximally, where average penetration varied between 0.4 and 3.5 mm. A thicker solid cement mantle gave on average less cement penetration (r=−0.62). Stem subsidence after cyclic loading ranged from 0.4 to 2.5 mm and correlated significantly with tamp size (r=0.59, p< .05). However, better correlations were found with solid mantle thickness (r=0.90, p< 0.05) and cement penetration depth (r=−0.81). Stem retroversion after cyclic loading ranged from 0.1 to 2.0 degrees and correlated negatively with stem size (r=−0.53) but did not correlate with tamp size. Correlations with solid mantle thickness and cement penetration depth were not better than those with tamp size. Discussion: Our study shows that a thinner mantle is associated with deeper cement penetration into the graft. This probably is due to the higher cement pressure generated during stem insertion when there is less space for the cement to escape. Better mechanical interlock with the higher cement penetration possibly explains the reduced subsidence with thin cement mantles. Our study also shows that stem retroversion is associated with stem size only, and is larger for thinner stems. This could be explained by thinner stems providing less resistance to torsional forces

The stability of cemented hip implants relies on the fixation of the cement mantle within the bone cavity. This fixation has been investigated in experiments with cement-bone interface specimens, which have shown that the cement-bone interface is much more compliant than is commonly assumed. Other studies demonstrated that the mechanical response of the interface is dependent on penetration of the cement into the bone. It is, however, unclear how cement penetration exactly affects the stiffness and strength of the cement-bone interface. We therefore used finite element (FE) models of cement-bone specimens to study the effect of cement penetration depth on the micromechanical behavior of the interface. The FE models were created based on micro computed tomography (micro CT) data of two small cement-bone interface specimens (8x8x4 mm). The specimens had distinct differences with respect to interface morphology. In these models we varied the penetration depth, with six different penetration levels for each model. We then incrementally deformed each model in tension and in shear, until failure of the models. Failure was simulated to occur in the bone and cement when the local ultimate tensile stress was exceeded, by locally reducing the material stiffness to near zero. From the resulting force-displacement curves we established the apparent tensile stiffness and strength for each of the models. Our results indicated that the strength and stiffness of the cement-bone interface increased with increasing cement penetration depth, both in tension and in shear. However, after reaching a certain penetration depth, both strength and stiffness did not further increase. This depth was dependent on the specific interface morphology. We furthermore found that the strength of the models was higher in shear than in tension. After failure of the models, damage was mainly found in the cement, rather than in the bone. The FE-based techniques developed for the current study are suitable for exploration of a variety of aspects that may affect the cement-bone interface micromechanics, such as biological changes to the bone and variations of cement material properties

Introduction. While fixation on the acetabular side in resurfacing implants has been uncemented, the femoral component is usually cemented. The most common causes for early revision in hip resurfacing are femoral head and or neck fractures and aseptic loosening of the femoral component. Later failures appear to be more related to adverse soft-tissue reactions due to metal wear. Little is known about the effect of cementing techniques on the clinical outcome in hip resurfacing, since retrieval analysis of failed hip resurfacing show large variations. Two cementing techniques have dominated. The indirect low viscosity (LV) technique as for the Birmingham Hip resurfacing (BHR) system and the direct high viscosity (HV) technique as for the Articular Surface replacement (ASR) system. The ASR was withdrawn from the market in 2010 due to inferior short and midterm clinical outcome. This study presents an in vitro experiment on the cement mantle parameters and penetration into ASR resurfaced femoral heads comparing both techniques. Methods. Five sets of paried frozen cadavar femura (3 male, 2 female) were used in the study. The study was approved by ethics committee. Plastic ASR replicas (DePuy, Leeds, UK), femoral head size 47Ø were used. The LV technique was used for the right femora (Group A, fig. 1 and 3) while the HV technigue was used for the left femora (Group B. Fig 2 and 4). The speciments were cut into quadrants. An initiial visual, qualitative evaluation was followed by CT analysis of cement mantle thickness and cement penetration into bone. Results. No significant differences were seen between the four quadrants within each group. The LV technigue resulted in greater cement penetration and increased cement mantle under the top proximally. The HV technique showed less penetration and lower cement mantle. See figures 1–4. Discussion. The aim was to analyze the effect of the cementing techniques used in hip resurfacing practice. The ASR implant was chosen to improve understanding of whether the implant may have been sensitive to cementing techniques and whether an analysis of cementing with the recommended HV technique may assist in explaning the high incidence of short-term ASR revisions due to fractures. Findings for the HV technigue would indicate a superior technique according to consensus in conventional arthropalsty However, this contradicts clinical evidence on resurfacing, where LV cementation has been shown tho be superior. The superficial intergration in the HV technigue may result in only a superficial integration and subsequently suboptimal fixation to bone. To view tables/figures, please contact authors directly

Impaction allografting is increasingly used for the treatment of failed total hip replacements. In six human cadaveric femurs the impaction allografting procedure was performed to comprehensively describe the postoperative morphology of impaction allografting. After the procedure, the specimens were sectioned and prepared for histomorphometric analysis. The graft porosity was lowest in Gruen zone four (52%) and highest in Gruen zone one (76%). At the level of Gruen zone six and two, virtually the entire cross-section was filled with bone cement. The presented data will serve as a baseline for future investigations of the impaction allografting. Impaction allografting is an attractive procedure for the treatment of failed total hip replacements. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively describe the morphology of impaction allografting post operatively to form a baseline for further investigations. Three experienced surgeons performed the impaction allografting procedure on six cadaveric femurs. After the procedure, the femurs were cut in 6mm thick transverse sections and processed for histomorphometric analysis. The porosity of the impacted graft was highest proximally in Gruen zone one (76%) and lowest in Gruen zone four (52%). Below the tip of the stem (Gruen zone four), the mean cement penetration was significantly lower compared to the proximal part of the femur. The averaged residual impacted graft layer in Gruen zone six and two was (0.5mm SD 0.4mm) significantly thinner compared with Gruen zone’s one, 7/1, and four. In the region of Gruen zone six and two the entire cross-section was penetrated with bone cement with almost no residual graft layer (Figure). Even the simulated lytic defects in this region were filled with the graft cement composite which may not be remodelled by the host bone. The graft porosity was found to be highest proximally and lowest distally. In the region of Gruen zone six and two the entire cross-section was penetrated with bone cement with almost no residual graft layer. This investigation will serve as a baseline for future studies of the mechanical and biological processes that make the impaction allografting a successful procedure. Funding: Stryker Howmedica and DePuy for provided implants and instruments. Please contact author for figures and/or diagrams

This study explored the relationship between the initial stability of the femoral component and penetration of cement into the graft bed following impaction allografting. Impaction allografting was carried out in human cadaveric femurs. In one group the cement was pressurised conventionally but in the other it was not pressurised. Migration and micromotion of the implant were measured under simulated walking loads. The specimens were then cross-sectioned and penetration of the cement measured. Around the distal half of the implant we found approximately 70% and 40% of contact of the cement with the endosteum in the pressure and no-pressure groups, respectively. The distal migration/micromotion, and valgus/varus migration were significantly higher in the no-pressure group than in that subjected to pressure. These motion components correlated negatively with the mean area of cement and its contact with the endosteum. The presence of cement at the endosteum appears to play an important role in the initial stability of the implant following impaction allografting

We studied various aspects of graft impaction and penetration of cement in an experimental model. Cancellous bone was removed proximally and local diaphyseal lytic defects were simulated in six human cadaver femora. After impaction grafting the specimens were sectioned and prepared for histomorphometric analysis. The porosity of the graft was lowest in Gruen zone 4 (52%) and highest in Gruen zone 1 (76%). At the levels of Gruen zones 6 and 2 the entire cross-section was almost filled with cement. Cement sometimes reached the endosteal surface in other Gruen zones. The mean peak impaction forces exerted with the impactors were negatively correlated with the porosity of the graft

The aim of this study was to compare a third-generation cementing procedure for glenoid components with a new technique for cement pressurisation. In 20 pairs of scapulae, 20 keeled and 20 pegged glenoid components were implanted using either a third-generation cementing technique (group 1) or a new pressuriser (group 2). Cement penetration was measured by three-dimensional (3D) analysis of micro-CT scans. The mean 3D depth of penetration of the cement was significantly greater in group 2 (p < 0.001). The mean thickness of the cement mantle for keeled glenoids was 2.50 mm (2.0 to 3.3) in group 1 and 5.18 mm (4.4 to 6.1) in group 2, and for pegged glenoids it was 1.72 mm (0.9 to 2.3) in group 1 and 5.63 mm (3.6 to 6.4) in group 2. A cement mantle < 2 mm was detected less frequently in group 2 (p < 0.001). Using the cement pressuriser the proportion of cement mantles < 2 mm was significantly reduced compared with the third-generation cementing technique.

During total knee arthroplasty (TKA), a tourniquet is often used intraoperatively. There are proposed benefits of tourniquet use including shorter duration of surgery, improved surgical field visualization and increased cement penetration which may improve implant longevity. However, there are also cited side effects that include increased post-operative pain, slowed recovery, skin bruising, neurovascular injury and quadriceps weakness. Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated no differences in implant longevity, however they are limited by short follow-up and small sample sizes. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the rates of revision surgery among patients undergoing cemented TKA with or without an intraoperative tourniquet and to understand the causes and risk factors for failure. A retrospective cohort study was undertaken of all patients who received a primary, cemented TKA at a high-volume arthroplasty centre from January 1999 to December 2010. Patients who underwent surgery without the use of a tourniquet and those who had a tourniquet inflated for the entirety of the case were included. The causes and timing of revision surgery were recorded and cross referenced with the Canadian Institute of Health Information Discharge Abstract Database to reduce the loss to follow-up. Survivorship analysis was performed with the use of Kaplan-Meier curves to determine overall survival rates at final follow-up. A Cox proportional hazards model was utilized to evaluate independent predictors of revision surgery. Data from 3939 cases of primary cemented TKA were available for analysis. There were 2276 (58%) cases in which a tourniquet was used for the duration of the surgery and 1663 (42%) cases in which a tourniquet was not utilized. Mean time from the primary TKA was 14.7 years (range 0 days - 22.8 years) when censored by death or revision surgery. There were 150 recorded revisions in the entire cohort, with periprosthetic joint infection (n=50) and aseptic loosening (n=41) being the most common causes for revision. The cumulative survival at final follow-up for the tourniquetless group was 93.8% at final follow-up while the cumulative survival at final follow-up for the tourniquet group was 96.9% at final follow-up. Tourniquetless surgery was an independent predictor for all-cause revision with an HR of 1.53 (95% CI 1.1, 2.1, p=0.011). Younger age and male sex were also independent factors for all cause revision. The results of the current study demonstrate higher all-cause revision rates with tourniquetless surgery in a large cohort of patients undergoing primary cemented TKA. The available literature consists of short-term trials and registry data, which have inherent limitations. Potential causes for increased revision rates in the tourniquetless group include reduced cement penetration, increased intraoperative blood loss and longer surgical. The results of the current study should be taken into consideration, alongside the known risks and benefits of tourniquet use, when considering intraoperative tourniquet use in cemented TKA

Aims. One of the main causes of tibial revision surgery for total knee arthroplasty is aseptic loosening. Therefore, stable fixation between the tibial component and the cement, and between the tibial component and the bone, is essential. A factor that could influence the implant stability is the implant design, with its different variations. In an existing implant system, the tibial component was modified by adding cement pockets. The aim of this experimental in vitro study was to investigate whether additional cement pockets on the underside of the tibial component could improve implant stability. The relative motion between implant and bone, the maximum pull-out force, the tibial cement mantle, and a possible path from the bone marrow to the metal-cement interface were determined. Methods. A tibial component with (group S: Attune S+) and without (group A: Attune) additional cement pockets was implanted in 15 fresh-frozen human leg pairs. The relative motion was determined under dynamic loading (extension-flexion 20° to 50°, load-level 1,200 to 2,100 N) with subsequent determination of the maximum pull-out force. In addition, the cement mantle was analyzed radiologically for possible defects, the tibia base cement adhesion, and preoperative bone mineral density (BMD). Results. The BMD showed no statistically significant difference between both groups. Group A showed for all load levels significantly higher maximum relative motion compared to group S for 20° and 50° flexion. Group S improved the maximum failure load significantly compared to group A without additional cement pockets. Group S showed a significantly increased cement adhesion compared to group A. The cement penetration and cement mantle defect analysis showed no significant differences between both groups. Conclusion. From a biomechanical point of view, the additional cement pockets of the component have improved the fixation performance of the implant. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(4):229–238

Aims. The main objective of this study is to analyze the penetration of bone cement in four different full cementation techniques of the tibial tray. Methods. In order to determine the best tibial tray cementation technique, we applied cement to 40 cryopreserved donor tibiae by four different techniques: 1) double-layer cementation of the tibial component and tibial bone with bone restrictor; 2) metallic cementation of the tibial component without bone restrictor; 3) bone cementation of the tibia with bone restrictor; and 4) superficial bone cementation of the tibia and metallic keel cementation of the tibial component without bone restrictor. We performed CT exams of all 40 subjects, and measured cement layer thickness at both levels of the resected surface of the epiphysis and the endomedular metaphyseal level. Results. At the epiphyseal level, Technique 2 gave the greatest depth compared to the other investigated techniques. At the endomedular metaphyseal level, Technique 1 showed greater cement penetration than the other techniques. Conclusion. The best metaphyseal cementation technique of the tibial component is bone cementation with cement restrictor. Additionally, if full tibial component cementation is to be done, the cement volume used should be about 40 g of cement, and not the usual 20 g. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(8):467–473

Radiolucent lines (RL) are a common radiographic finding following Oxford Uni knee arthroplastv. These RL are commonly seen at the bone-cement interface under the tibial tray and can only be evaluated using screened radiographs. These lines occur during the first year, are well defined and remain constant for years. The clinical relevance of this phenomenon is unclear. Pulse lavage has the potential to thoroughly clean the trabecular bone by clearing the bone from bone marrow and debris and can thereby facilitate cement penetration and interdigitation into trabecular bone. Pulse lavage can reduce the occurrence of radiolucent lines under the tibial tray by improving cement penetration and interdigitation. Since 2001 we routinely use pulse lavage before cementing the Oxford uni implants at the Orthopä-dische Universitätsklinik Heidelberg (group A). At Nuffield Orthopeadic Center, Oxford conventional irrigation has been used before cementing (group B). At a minimum follow-up of 1 year 56 screened AP radiographs of the knee after Oxford UCA have been blinded and evaluated for radiolucency and cement penetration by an independent observer. For standardized evaluation the cement bone interface has been devided into 4 zones and a specific algorithm for evaluation of the radiographs has been developed. Complete radiolucencies were detected in 2 cases (4%) in group A and in 13 cases (23%) in group B (p=0,001). Partial radiolucent lines were seen in 32 knees of group A (57%) and in 40 knees (71%) in group B. In zone 1 RLs were found in 31 tibias (55%) in group A, in 32 tibias (57%) in group B. In zone 2 17 (30%) group A, 29 (52%) group B. In Zone 3 4 (7%) in Gruppe A, 20 (36%) in group B. In Zone 4 6 (11%) group A, 30 (54%) group B. The differences between group A and B were significant (P=0.001) in zones 2, 3 and 4. In group A in 14 cases (25%) RL were limited to one zone, in group B in 5 cases (9%), respectively. In 12 cases (21%) 2 zones were affected in group A (12 cases (21%) group B). RLs in 3 zones were found in 4 cases (7%) in group A and in 10 cases (18%) in group B. Mean cement penetration (mm) was 2,3mm in group A and in 1,4mm in group B. The use of pulsed lavage led to an increase in cement penetration by a factor of 1,6 (cement penetration in group A/B zone 1: 1,4mm/0,8mm; zone 2: 2,4mm/1,5mm; zone 3: 1,4mm/0,7mm; zone 4: 4,0mm/2,4mm). The use of pulsed lavage significantly decreases the appearance of RLs at a minimum of 1 year follow-up by increasing cement penetration into cancellous bone. Even though the clinical relevance of tibial RLs in unclear we recommend the use of pulse lavage to improve cement penetration and interdigitation with cancellous bone. Unnecessary revisions due to misinterpretation of RLs may be prevented

Introduction. Beneath infection, instability and malalignment, aseptic tibial component loosening remains a major cause of failure in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) [1]. This emphasizes the need for stable primary and long-term secondary fixation of tibial baseplates. To evaluate the primary stability of cemented tibial baseplates, different pre-clinical test methods have been undergone: finite element analysis [2], static push-out [3,4] or dynamic compression-shear loading [5] until interface failure. However, these test conditions do not reflect the long-term endurance under in vivo loading modes, where the tibial baseplate is predominantly subjected to compression and shear forces in a cyclic profile [5,6]. To distinguish between design parameters the aim of our study was to develop suitable pre-clinical test methods to evaluate the endurance of the implant-cement-bone interface fixation for tibial baseplates under severe anterior (method I) and internal-external torsional (method II) shear test conditions. Materials & Methods. To create a clinically relevant cement penetration pattern a 4. th. generation composite bone model was customised with a cancellous core (12.5 PCF cellular rigid PU foam) to enable for high cycle endurance testing. VEGA System. ®. PS & Columbus. ®. CRA/PSA ZrN-multilayer coated tibial baseplates (2×12) were implanted in the customised bone model using Palacos. ®. R HV bone cement (Figure 1). An anterior compression-shear test (method II) was conducted at 2500 N for 10 million cycles and continued at 3000 N & 3500 N for each 1 million cycles (total: 12 million cycles) simulating post-cam engagement at 45° flexion. An internal-external torsional shear test (method II) was executed in an exaggeration of clinically relevant rotations [7,8] with ±17.2° for 1 million cycles at 3000 N tibio-femoral load in extension. After endurance testing either under anterior shear or internal-external torsion each tibial baseplate was mounted into a testing frame and maximum push-out strength was determined [3]. Results. The cement penetration depth and characteristic pattern were comparable to 3D-CT scans of 24 cemented human tibiae from a previous study [5]. From the final push-out testing, no statistical significant differences could be found for anterior compression-shear testing (method I) with VEGA System. ®. PS (2674 ± 754 N) and Columbus. ®. CRA/PSA (2177 ± 429 N) (p = 0.191), as well as internal-external torsional shear testing (method II) between VEGA System. ®. PS (2561 ± 519 N) and Columbus. ®. CRA/PSA (2825 ± 515 N) tibial baseplates (p = 0.399). Discussion. The newly developed methods allow the evaluation of the endurance behaviour of the implant-cement-bone interface fixation for tibial baseplates in comparison to clinically long-term established knee systems, based on a combination of a suitable artificial bone model and severe anterior and internal-external torsional high cycle shear test conditions

Introduction. Cement pressurisation in the distal humerus is technically difficult due to the anatomy of the humeral intramedullary (IM) cavity. Conventional cement restrictors often migrate proximally or leak, reducing the effect of pressurisation during implantation. Theoretically with a better cement bone interdigitation, the longevity of the elbow replacement can be improved. The aim of this cadaveric study was to evaluate the usefulness of a novel technique for cementation. Method. Eight paired fresh frozen cadaveric elbows were randomly allocated to conventional cementing techniques or cementing using a paediatric foley catheter as a temporary restrictor. The traditional cementing technique consisted of canal preparation using irrigation, brushing and drying prior to cementation, with no use of a cement restrictor. The new technique involved same canal preparation but prior to cementation a size 8 foley catheter was introduced and the balloon inflated to act as a temporary cement restrictor. The humeri were cut into 10mm sections. Each slice was photographed and radiographed. This dual imaging technique was used to establish the best methodology for evaluation of cement penetration. Cement penetration was calculated as a ratio of the area of intra-medullary cavity occupied by the cement. Results. There was no significant difference between the photographic and radiographic method of measuring cement penetration. Cement penetration was significantly better in the foley catheter group (P = 0.002-0.037). The maximum penetration was observed in the most distal 2-5cm. Conclusion. The foley catheter technique consistently and significantly achieved a better cement interdigitation into the cancellous bone, without leaving a void in the cement. This study has demonstrated a new cementing technique for elbow arthroplasty, utilising a paediatric foley catheter as a temporary humeral intra-medullary plug, increasing cement pressurisation and restricting proximal cement migration. Future studies using this methodology will not require supplementation of photographs with radiographic analysis

Introduction: The medial unicompartmental knee prosthesis (UKA) is less invasive than total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and preserves undamaged structures of the joint. The range of movement and recovery are better in UKA, while postoperative pain reduction is at least equal to TKA. UKA have a higher revision rate than TKA (15% vs 10% after 10 years). One main reason for revision is mechanical loosening. 1. There is a paucity of information regarding cement fixation of UKA. We compared jet lavage to conventional lavage with focus on cement pressures, interface temperatures and cement penetration. Materials and Methods: UKA was performed in 10 paired entire human cadaver legs (Oxford Phase III, Biomet, Dordrecht, NL). Customized tibial implants and a pressure probe insert were used to measure the cement pressure anterior, posterior and near the implant fin during implantation and polymerisation. A drilling and fixation jig was used for standardized positioning of the three temperature probes. The polymerization heat was measured 5 mm below the bone surface at the medial and lateral plateau as well as under the fin. The same cementing technique was performed for all knees using Refobacin. ®. Bone Cement R. One side of the paired knees was cleaned using jet lavage, contra lateral cleaning was done with conventional lavage. The lavage volume was equal for both. Methods: AP radiographs were taken and digitalized to quantify the cement penetration areas and depths, using a pixel-analysis-software. Group comparisons were done with the Wilcoxon-Test using SPSS (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois). Results: Average cement pressure under the tibial implant is significantly higher for conventional lavage (avg cement pressure 25.69 ± 17.85 kPa, p= 0.005) than for jet lavage (avg cement pressure 13.28 ± 12.82 kPa). Mean temperature increase measured 5 mm below the bone surface medial and lateral, as well as under the implant fin, were statistically significant higher for the cementing technique with jet lavage (lat. 14.10 ± 5.72°C, p= 0.018/med. 8.49 ± 4.20°C, p= 0.176/fin 5.95 ± 1.92°C, p= 0.063) than for the conventional lavage (lat. 9.42 ± 5.17°C/med. 6.42 ± 2.21°C/fin 3.96 ± 2.03°C). On AP radiographs, cement penetration areas under the tibial implant were significantly higher for jet lavage (penetration area: 122.15 ± 33.94 sq mm, p= 0.046) than for conventional lavage (penetration area: 89.82 ± 23.92 sq mm). Discussion: The use of jet lavage showed clear advantages in our cadaver studies. Jet lavage resulted in higher cement penetration despite of lower cement pressures under the tibial implant. The higher cement penetration lead to higher interface temperatures but exposure to high temperatures over 50 °C with a risk for bone necrosis could not be measured

The development of more wear resistant biomaterials and better locking mechanisms for the polyethylene into the tibial base has significantly reduced polyethylene wear as a reason for revision TKA. Aseptic loosening is now the primary cause for revision TKA. Loosening can be caused by multifactorial operative issues: 1] patient selection, 2] implant alignment, 3] cementing technique. Furthermore, aseptic loosening occurs at a consistent rate over time. Increased cement penetration is important to counter bone resorption. Increasing penetration also improves cement mantle toughness leading to better mechanical integrity of the bone-cement interface and reduces bone-cement interface stress. It is important to recognise that a cleaner and drier interface does improve bone-cement penetration. Techniques to improve the process include better cement formulations, drilling sclerotic bone, devices and implant features to increase pressurization, using negative pressure suction ports in the tibia. We have extensive experience with CarboJet, a method of CO. 2. gas jet cleaning and drying. This experience was developed during 20 years of performing TKA with NO tourniquet. Schnetler et al found that the “use of a tourniquet in TKA causes a paradoxical increase in total blood loss”. So, NO tourniquet TKA is becoming the new paradigm for knee arthroplasty in reconstructive orthopaedics. Goldstein reported that pressurised carbon dioxide jet lavage resulted in a 35% increase in cement penetration depth when used vs. use of pulsatile saline lavage alone. Meneghini used this pressurised carbon dioxide system to study the influence of NO tourniquet use in TKA. He found a significant lowering of opioid consumption postoperatively. Another important factor in increasing the cement interdigitation is the influence of lipids which significantly weakens the bond at the interfaces. If motion is allowed during cementation there is additional loss of penetration and therefore fixation. The pressurised carbon dioxide delivered by the CarboJet system actually pushes the lipid, fatty marrow up and out of the bone allowing it to be suctioned or lap dried from the interface surface. The NO tourniquet technique and the use of carbon dioxide jet gas delivery to improve the bone-cement interface in TKA will be demonstrated

A secure bone cement interface between the acetabulum and the cement mantle of the hip socket is an important requirement for the long-term success of a cemented hip arthroplasty. Cement pressurisation after bone bed cleaning enables cement to penetrate interstices of cancellous bone forming a superior fixation strength. We designed an in-vitro experiment to evaluate the performance of the Exeter, Depuy T-handle and a plunger-type pressurisers using two parameters: cement penetration and cement pressurisation. The deformation of the flexible pressure head of the DePuy model produced a cement mantle, which is thick at the pole but tapered at its rim and variable in the amount of penetration produced (range 2–8mm) for an estimated similar force. Pressures of up to 60KPa were generated throughout the model acetabulum. The Exeter pressuriser was found to produce cement mantles more compatible with a socket. However, the test results show a wide variation in cement penetration occurring for what was estimated to be a similar applied force (3mm to 9mm at the pole and 5mm to 9mm at the rim). It was also shown to have the disadvantage of causing widely dissimilar pressures at the pole and the rim. The plunger protrusion required to produce 5mm cement penetration was found to be 7.5mm. Since this protrusion can be monitored and controlled by the operator, a cement intrusion of 5mm +/−1mm was found to be reproducible with the plunger-type device. The maximum variation in intrusion between rim and pole was 1 mm. Maximin pressures of 70KPa were generated. We have presented experimental evidence that suggests that a plunger type of acetabular cement pressuriser may provide a more consistently reproducible level of pressurisation leading to optimal cement penetration