Introduction. Patients with reduced lumbar spine mobility are at higher risk of dislocation after THA as their hips have to compensate for spinal stiffness. Therefore our study aimed to 1) Define the optimal protocol for identifying patients with mobile hips and stiff lumbar spines and 2) Determine clinical and standing radiographic parameters predicting high hip and reduced lumbar spine mobility. Methods. This prospective diagnostic cohort study followed 113 consecutive patients with end-stage hip osteoarthritis (OA) awaiting THA. Radiographic measurements were performed for the lumbar lordosis angle, pelvic tilt and pelvic-femoral angle on lateral radiographs in the standing, ‘relaxed-seated’ and ‘deep-seated’ (i.e. torso maximally leaning forward) position. A “hip user index” was calculated in order to quantify the contribution of the hip joint to the overall sagittal movement performed by the femur, pelvis and lumbar spine. Results. Radiographs in the relaxed-seated position had an accuracy of 56% (95%CI:46–65%) to detect patients with stiff lumbar spines, compared to a detected rate of 100% in the deep-seated position. The mean ‘hip user index’ was 63±12% and ten patients (9%) were hip users, having an index of 80% or more. A standing pelvic tilt of ≥18.5° was the only predictor for being a hip user with a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 71% (AUC 0.83). Patients with a standing pelvic tilt ≥18.5° and an unbalanced spine with a flatback deformity had a 30xfold relative risk (95%-CI:4–226; p<0.001) of being a hip user. Conclusion. Patients awaiting THA and having high hip and reduced lumbar spine mobility can be screened for with lateral standing radiographs of the spinopelvic complex and a thorough clinical examination. If the initial screening is positive, radiographs in the deep-seated position allow for better identification of patients being ‘hip users’ compared to radiographs in the relaxed-seated position

Stress shielding has been a well-recognised problem with uncemented femoral components resulting in proximal bone loss and dysfunction, but less attention has been paid to the preservation of acetabular bone stock. Uncemented acetabular components often demonstrate reduced bone density on plain radiographs in the mid-portion of the cup (zone 2), which may be due to the rigidity of the outer shell. This study compares the change in bone density around three different cups with varying moduli of elasticity at a minimum of 2 years. Our hypothesis was that less rigid cups would be associated with improved bone density and less stress shielding. This prospective randomised controlled trial compared the bone mineral content (BMC) adjacent to three different cups with marked differences in stiffness. Cup A was an all titanium shell, cup B was a titanium coated all polyethylene implant and cup C was a tantalum backed shell. All articulations used a 32mm ceramic femoral head. Cup B used polyethylene modified by treatment with vitamin E whereas cups A and C used a liner made of irradiated cross linked polyethylene. Five regions of interest (ROI) were established adjacent to the cup, regions 2, 3 and 4 where similar to the DeLee and Charnley regions 1, 2 and 3. Bone density was measured using IDXA preoperatively, postoperatively, 6 months, 1 and 2 years and compared for each ROI and implant. Precision measurements showed significant reliability. All areas showed a reduction in BMC following insertion of the acetabular cup. Bone loss was less in ROI 1 and 4 in the area of rim fit for all cups and the maximal bone loss was seen in ROI 2 and 3 at the dome of the cup. The more elastic cup (Cup B) produced the least bone loss in this area (p<0.05). Cup C produced the largest bone loss at ROI 2 (40%) which continued increasing at 2 years. Cup stiffness is related to bone loss adjacent to the acetabulum, presumably due to a similar process of stress shielding as seen in the femur. All cups produced similar changes at the periphery of the cup but the more elastic cup retained bone density beneath the cup which continued past 2 years. This improvement in bone quality is likely to be associated with better acetabular bone stock into the future and more reliable long term cup fixation

Aims. Navigation devices are designed to improve a surgeon’s accuracy in positioning the acetabular and femoral components in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to both evaluate the accuracy of an optical computer-assisted surgery (CAS) navigation system and determine whether preoperative spinopelvic mobility (categorized as hypermobile, normal, or stiff) increased the risk of acetabular component placement error. Methods. A total of 356 patients undergoing primary THA were prospectively enrolled from November 2016 to March 2018. Clinically relevant error using the CAS system was defined as a difference of > 5° between CAS and 3D radiological reconstruction measurements for acetabular component inclination and anteversion. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine whether hypermobile (. Δ. sacral slope(SS). stand-sit. > 30°), or stiff (. ∆. SS. stand-sit. < 10°) spinopelvic mobility contributed to increased error rates. Results. The paired absolute difference between CAS and postoperative imaging measurements was 2.3° (standard deviation (SD) 2.6°) for inclination and 3.1° (SD 4.2°) for anteversion. Using a target zone of 40° (± 10°) (inclination) and 20° (± 10°) (anteversion), postoperative standing radiographs measured 96% of acetabular components within the target zone for both inclination and anteversion. Multiple logistic regression analysis controlling for BMI and sex revealed that hypermobile spinopelvic mobility significantly increased error rates for anteversion (odds ratio (OR) 2.48, p = 0.009) and inclination (OR 2.44, p = 0.016), whereas stiff spinopelvic mobility increased error rates for anteversion (OR 1.97, p = 0.028). There were no dislocations at a minimum three-year follow-up. Conclusion. Despite high reliability in acetabular positioning for inclination in a large patient cohort using an optical CAS system, hypermobile and stiff spinopelvic mobility significantly increased the risk of clinically relevant errors. In patients with abnormal spinopelvic mobility, CAS systems should be adjusted for use to avoid acetabular component misalignment and subsequent risk for long-term dislocation. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(6):475–484

Instability is a common indication for revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, even after the initial revision, some patients continue to have recurrent dislocations. This study investigates those at risk for recurrent dislocation after revision THA for instability at a single institution. Between 2009 and 2019, 163 patients underwent revision THA for instability at a single institution. Thirty-three of these patients required re-revision THA due to recurrent dislocation. Cox proportional hazard models with death as a competing event were used to analyze risk factors, including prosthesis sizing and alignment. Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to assess patient outcomes (Veterans RAND 12 (VR-12) physical score, VR-12 mental score, Harris Hip Score, and hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score for joint replacement). Duration of follow-up until either re-revision or final follow-up was a mean of 45.3 ± 38.2 months. The 1-year cumulative incidence for recurrent dislocation after revision was 8.7%, which increased to 19.6% at 5 years and 32.9% at 10 years postoperatively. In the multivariable analysis, high ASA score [HR 2.71], being underweight (BMI<18 kg/m. 2. ) [HR 36.26] or overweight/obese (BMI>25 kg/m. 2. ) [HR 4.31], use of specialized liners [HR 5.51–10.71], lumbopelvic stiffness [HR 6.29], and postoperative abductor weakness [HR 7.20] were significant risk factors for recurrent dislocation. Increasing the cup size decreased the dislocation risk [HR 0.89]. The dual mobility construct did not affect the risk for recurrent dislocation in univariate or multivariable analyses. VR-12 physical and HHS (pain and function) scores improved postoperatively at midterm. Patients requiring revision THA for instability are at risk for recurrent dislocation. Higher ASA scores, abnormal BMI, use of special liners, lumbopelvic stiffness, and postoperative abductor weakness are significant risk factors for re-dislocation

We aimed to examine outcomes between displaced femoral neck fracture (FNF) patients managed with total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hemi-arthroplasty (HA) via the anterolateral vs. posterior approach. We used data from the HEALTH trial (1,441 patients aged ≥50 with displaced FNFs randomized to THA vs. HA). We calculated each patient's propensity to undergo arthroplasty via the posterior approach, and matched them to 1 control (anterolateral approach) based on age (±5 years), and propensity score. We used Chi-Square/Fisher-Exact tests to compare dichotomous outcomes, and repeated measures ANOVA to examine differences in patient-reported outcomes (via the WOMAC subscores) from baseline to one-year postoperative. We used logistic regression to identify independent predictors of reoperation for instability in the posterior group. We identified 1,306 patients for this sub-analysis, 876 (67.1%) who received arthroplasty via an anterolateral approach, and 430 (32.9%) a posterior approach. The unadjusted rate of reoperation was significantly higher in the posterior group (10.7% vs. 7.1%). Following propensity score matching, we retained 790 patients (395 per group), with no between-group differences in patient, fracture, or implant characteristics. The matched cohort had a higher rate of comorbidities, and were less likely to be employed vs. the unmatched cohort. The rate of treatment for dislocation remained higher in the posterior group (6.1% vs. 2.0%) following matching. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significantly better WOMAC pain, stiffness, function, and total scores in the posterior group. Between-group differences at 12-months were: pain - 0.59 (0.03–1.15); stiffness - 0.62 (0.35–0.87); function - 2.99 (0.12–5.86); total - 3.90 (0.24–7.56). We identified THA (vs. HA, odds ratio 2.05 [1.05–4.01]) as the only independent predictor of treatment for dislocation in the posterior group. Our analyses revealed that compromised patients with displaced FNFs who undergo arthroplasty via the posterior approach may report better symptoms at one-year vs. the anterolateral approach, despite a higher odds of reoperation for instability

Aims. Cross-table lateral (CTL) radiographs are commonly used to measure acetabular component anteversion after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The CTL measurements may differ by > 10° from CT scan measurements but the reasons for this discrepancy are poorly understood. Anteversion measurements from CTL radiographs and CT scans are compared to identify spinopelvic parameters predictive of inaccuracy. Methods. THA patients (n = 47; 27 males, 20 females; mean age 62.9 years (SD 6.95)) with preoperative spinopelvic mobility, radiological analysis, and postoperative CT scans were retrospectively reviewed. Acetabular component anteversion was measured on postoperative CTL radiographs and CT scans using 3D reconstructions of the pelvis. Two cohorts were identified based on a CTL-CT error of ≥ 10° (n = 11) or < 10° (n = 36). Spinopelvic mobility parameters were compared using independent-samples t-tests. Correlation between error and mobility parameters were assessed with Pearson’s coefficient. Results. Patients with CTL error > 10° (10° to 14°) had stiffer lumbar spines with less mean lumbar flexion (38.9°(SD 11.6°) vs 47.4° (SD 13.1°); p = 0.030), different sagittal balance measured by pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis mismatch (5.9° (SD 18.8°) vs -1.7° (SD 9.8°); p = 0.042), more pelvic extension when seated (pelvic tilt -9.7° (SD 14.1°) vs -2.2° (SD 13.2°); p = 0.050), and greater change in pelvic tilt between supine and seated positions (12.6° (SD 12.1°) vs 4.7° (SD 12.5°); p = 0.036). The CTL measurement error showed a positive correlation with increased CTL anteversion (r = 0.5; p = 0.001), standing lordosis (r = 0.23; p = 0.050), seated lordosis (r = 0.4; p = 0.009), and pelvic tilt change between supine and step-up positions (r = 0.34; p = 0.010). Conclusion. Differences in spinopelvic mobility may explain the variability of acetabular anteversion measurements made on CTL radiographs. Patients with stiff spines and increased compensatory pelvic movement have less accurate measurements on CTL radiographs. Flexion of the contralateral hip is required to obtain clear CTL radiographs. In patients with lumbar stiffness, this movement may extend the pelvis and increase anteversion of the acetabulum on CTL views. Reliable analysis of acetabular component anteversion in this patient population may require advanced imaging with a CT scan. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):59–65

Aims. Patients with spinal pathology who undergo total hip arthroplasty (THA) have an increased risk of dislocation and revision. The aim of this study was to determine if the use of the Hip-Spine Classification system in these patients would result in a decreased rate of postoperative dislocation in patients with spinal pathology. Methods. This prospective, multicentre study evaluated 3,777 consecutive patients undergoing THA by three surgeons, between January 2014 and December 2019. They were categorized using The Hip-Spine Classification system: group 1 with normal spinal alignment; group 2 with a flatback deformity, group 2A with normal spinal mobility, and group 2B with a stiff spine. Flatback deformity was defined by a pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis of > 10°, and spinal stiffness was defined by < 10° change in sacral slope from standing to seated. Each category determined a patient-specific component positioning. Survivorship free of dislocation was recorded and spinopelvic measurements were compared for reliability using intraclass correlation coefficient. Results. A total of 2,081 patients met the inclusion criteria. There were 987 group 1A, 232 group 1B, 715 group 2A, and 147 group 2B patients. A total of 70 patients had a lumbar fusion, most had L4-5 (16; 23%) or L4-S1 (12; 17%) fusions; 51 patients (73%) had one or two levels fused, and 19 (27%) had > three levels fused. Dual mobility (DM) components were used in 166 patients (8%), including all of those in group 2B and with > three level fusions. Survivorship free of dislocation at five years was 99.2% with a 0.8% dislocation rate. The correlation coefficient was 0.83 (95% confidence interval 0.89 to 0.91). Conclusion. This is the largest series in the literature evaluating the relationship between hip-spine pathology and dislocation after THA, and guiding appropriate treatment. The Hip-Spine Classification system allows surgeons to make appropriate evaluations preoperatively, and it guides the use of DM components in patients with spinopelvic pathology in order to reduce the risk of dislocation in these high-risk patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):17–24

Introduction. The effect of spine-pelvis position and motion on hip arthroplasty function has been increasingly appreciated in the past several years. Some authors have stressed the importance of using precision technologies for component placement while others have advocated the use of dual mobility articulations or large bearings and lateralized liners in patients with fused lumbar spines. The current study assesses the prevalence of stiff and fused spines in an elective total hip arthroplasty population. Methods. One hundred and forty-nine patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasty were assessed preoperatively with CT (computed tomography) and functional radiographs for the purpose of CT based planning and intraoperative navigation of total hip arthroplasty (HipXpert System, Surgical Planning Associates, Inc., Boston, MA). The functional radiographs included standing and sitting lateral images (EOS Imaging, SA, Paris, France). Patients were assessed for supine, standing and sitting pelvic tilt (PT) and change in sacral slope (SS). Spine stiffness was defined by a change in sacral slope (SS) of less than or equal to 10 degrees on the standing to sitting lateral radiographs according to Luthringer et al JOA 2019. Results. Of these 149 patients, 2 (1.5%) had been previously treated by instrumented lumbar fusion. Thirty-nine additional patients (26.1%) had stiff spines as defined by a change in sacral slope of less than 10 degrees from standing to sitting. The mean supine PT measured by CT scan was 3.46 degrees of anterior PT which is similar to previously described in the literature. The mean supine PT in stiff spine patients measured 1.5 degrees of anterior tilt which was not statistically significant. The mean standing pelvic tilt measured 0.0 degrees in the all patients and −4.3 degrees in stiff spine patients. The mean sitting pelvic tilt was −18.9 degrees in the entire cohort and −11.3 degrees in the stiff spine patients. The difference in pelvic tilt between these two groups was statistically significant with p-values of 0.002 and 0.006, respectively. Discussion and Conclusion. Although the incidence of formal instrumented spine fusion was low in this cohort (1.5%), the incidence of spine stiffness was very high at 27.6%. Given that hip instability has been decreasing owing to a variety of techniques including larger bearings, intraoperative radiography, and intraoperative precision technologies, advocacy for the use of dual mobility implants simply for a history of spine fusion does not appear to be logical given that most stiff spines have not had a surgical fusion

Aims. Adverse spinal motion or balance (spine mobility) and adverse pelvic mobility, in combination, are often referred to as adverse spinopelvic mobility (SPM). A stiff lumbar spine, large posterior standing pelvic tilt, and severe sagittal spinal deformity have been identified as risk factors for increased hip instability. Adverse SPM can create functional malposition of the acetabular components and hence is an instability risk. Adverse pelvic mobility is often, but not always, associated with abnormal spinal motion parameters. Dislocation rates for dual-mobility articulations (DMAs) have been reported to be between 0% and 1.1%. The aim of this study was to determine the early survivorship from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR) of patients with adverse SPM who received a DMA. Methods. A multicentre study was performed using data from 227 patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), enrolled consecutively. All the patients who had one or more adverse spine or pelvic mobility parameter had a DMA inserted at the time of their surgery. The mean age was 76 years (22 to 93) and 63% were female (n = 145). At a mean of 14 months (5 to 31) postoperatively, the AOANJRR was analyzed for follow-up information. Reasons for revision and types of revision were identified. Results. The AOANJRR reported two revisions: one due to infection, and the second due to femoral component loosening. No revisions for dislocation were reported. One patient died with the prosthesis in situ. Kaplan-Meier survival rate was 99.1% (95% confidence interval 98.3 to 100) at 14 months (number at risk 104). Conclusion. In our cohort of patients undergoing primary THA with one or more factor associated with adverse SPM, DM bearings conferred stability at two years’ follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):820–825

There is a strong association between the presence of a calcar collar on a cementless stem and a reduced risk of revision surgery for periprosthetic fracture of the femur (PFF). A medial calcar collar may act to reduce relative movement between the implant and femur during PFF, through calcar-collar contact (CCC). The aims were:. Estimate the effect of CCC on periprosthetic fracture mechanics. Estimate the effect of initial calcar-collar separation on the likelihood of CCC. Three groups of six composite femurs were implanted with a fully coated collared cementless femoral stem. Neck resection differed between groups (group 1 = no additional resection, group 2 = 3mm additional resection, group 3 = 6mm additional resection). PFF were simulated using a previously published technique. Fracture torque and rotational displacement were measured and torsional stiffness and rotational work prior to fracture were estimated. Results between trials where CCC did and did not occur where compared using Mann-Whitney U tests. Logistic regression estimated the odds (OR) of failing with 95% confidence interval (CI) to achieve CCC for a given initial separation. Where CCC occurred fracture torque was greater (47.33 [41.03 to 50.45] Nm versus 38.26 [33.70 to 43.60] Nm, p= 0.05) and torsional stiffness was greater (151.38 [123.04 to 160.42] rad.Nm. −1. versus 96.86 [84.65 to 112.98] rad.Nm. −1. , p <0.01). CCC was occurred in all cases in group one, 50% in group two and 0% in group three. OR of failure to obtain CCC increased 3.8 fold (95% CI 1.6 to 30.2, p <0.05) for each millimetre of separation. Resistance to fracture and construct stiffness increased when a the collar made contact with the calcar prior to fracture and the chances of contact decrease with increasing initial separation at the time of implantation. Surgeons should aim to achieve a calcar-collar distance of less than 1mm following implantation to ensure CCC and to reduce the risk of fracture

Hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) is a bone conserving alternative to total hip arthroplasty. We present the early 2-year clinical and radiographic follow-up of a novel ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) HRA in an international multi-centric cohort. Patients undergoing HRA between September 2018 and January 2021 were prospectively included. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) in the form of the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), HOOS Jr, WOMAC, Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and UCLA Activity Score were collected preoperatively and at 1- and 2-years post-operation. Serial radiographs were assessed for migration, component alignment, evidence of osteolysis/loosening and heterotopic ossification formation. 200 patients were identified to have reached 2-year follow-up. Of these, 185 completed PROMS follow-up at 2 years. There was significant improvement in HOOS (p< 0.001) and OHS (p< 0.001) and FJS (p< 0.001) between the pre-operative and 2-year outcomes. Patients reported improved pain (p<0.001), function (p<0.001) and reduced stiffness (p<0.001) as measured by the WOMAC score. Patients had improved activity scores on the UCLA Active Score (P<0.001) with 53% reporting return to impact activity at 2 years. There was no osteolysis and the mean acetabular cup inclination angle was 41deg and the femoral component shaft angle was 137deg. No fractures were reported over but there was one sciatic nerve palsy with partial recovery. Two patients were revised; one at 3 months for pain due to a misdiagnosed back problem and another at 33 months for loosening of the acetabular component with delamination of the titanium ingrowth surface. CoC resurfacing at 2-years post-operation demonstrate promising results with satisfactory PROMS

Aims. Pelvic incidence (PI) is a position-independent spinopelvic parameter traditionally used by spinal surgeons to determine spinal alignment. Its relevance to the arthroplasty surgeon in assessing patient risk for total hip arthroplasty (THA) instability preoperatively is unclear. This study was undertaken to investigate the significance of PI relative to other spinopelvic parameter risk factors for instability to help guide its clinical application. Methods. Retrospective analysis was performed of a multicentre THA database of 9,414 patients with preoperative imaging (dynamic spinopelvic radiographs and pelvic CT scans). Several spinopelvic parameter measurements were made by engineers using advanced software including sacral slope (SS), standing anterior pelvic plane tilt (APPT), spinopelvic tilt (SPT), lumbar lordosis (LL), and PI. Lumbar flexion (LF) was determined by change in LL between standing and flexed-seated lateral radiographs. Abnormal pelvic mobility was defined as ∆SPT ≥ 20° between standing and flexed-forward positions. Sagittal spinal deformity (SSD) was defined as PI-LL mismatch > 10°. Results. PI showed a positive correlation with parameters of SS, SPT, and LL (r-value range 0.468 to 0.661). Patients with a higher PI value showed higher degrees of standing LL, likely as a compensatory measure to maintain sagittal spine balance. There was a positive correlation between LL and LF such that patients with less standing LL had decreased LF (r = 0.49). Similarly, there was a positive correlation between increased SSD and decreased LF (r = 0.54). PI in isolation did not show any significant correlation with lumbar (r = 0.04) or pelvic mobility (r = 0.02). The majority of patients (range 89.4% to 94.2%) had normal lumbar and pelvic mobility regardless of the PI value. Conclusion. The PI value alone is not indicative of either spinal or pelvic mobility, and thus in isolation may not be a risk factor for THA instability. Patients with SSD had higher rates of spinopelvic stiffness, which may be the mechanism by which PI relates to THA instability risk, but further clinical studies are required. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(3):352–358

Aims. Our study aimed to 1) determine if there was a difference for the HOOS-PS score between patients with stiff/normal/hypermobile spinopelvic mobility and 2) to investigate if functional sagittal cup orientation affected patient reported outcome 1 year post-THA. Methods. This prospective diagnostic cohort study followed 100 consecutive patients having received unilateral THA for end-stage hip osteoarthritis. Pre- and 1-year postoperatively, patients underwent a standardized clinical examination, completed the HOOS-PS score and sagittal low-dose radiographs were acquired in the standing and relaxed-seated position. Radiographic measurements were performed for the lumbar-lordosis-angle, pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic-femoral-angle and cup ante-inclination. The HOOS-PS was compared between patients with stiff (ΔPT<±10°), normal (10°≤ΔPT≤30°) and hypermobile spinopelvic mobility (ΔPT>±30°). Results. Preoperatively, 16 patients demonstrated stiff, 70 normal and 14 hypermobile spinopelvic mobility without a difference in the HOOS-PS score (66±14/67±17/65±19;p=0.905). One year postoperatively, 43 patients demonstrated stiff, 51 normal and 6 hypermobile spinopelvic mobility. All postoperative hypermobile patients had normal spinopelvic mobility preoperatively and showed significantly worse HOOS-PS scores compared to patients with stiff or normal spinopelvic mobility (21±17/21±22/35±16;p=0.043). Postoperatively, patients with hypermobile spinopelvic mobility demonstrated no significant difference for the pelvic tilt in the standing position compared to the other two groups (19±8°/16±8°/19±4°;p=0.221), but a significantly lower sagittal cup ante-inclination (36±10°/36±9°/29±8°;p=0.046). Conclusion. The present study demonstrated that patients with normal preoperative and postoperative spinopelvic hypermobility show worse HOOS-PS scores than patients with stiff or normal spinopelvic mobility. The lower postoperative cup ante-inclination seems to force the pelvis to tilt more posteriorly when moving from the standing to seated position (spinopelvic hypermobility) in order to avoid anterior impingement. Thus, functional cup orientation in the sagittal plane seems to affect postoperative patient reported outcome

Genetic skeletal disorders constitute a rare and heterogeneous bone diseases often leading to poor quality of life. Several surgical options are available. The surgeon must deal with specific features (bone deformity, previous procedures, abnormal bone quality, stiffness or instability, muscle weakness). The questions concern the feasibility of the procedures and the surgical strategy. 55 patients (26 W, 29 M) were reviewed between 2016 and 2022. The mean age of the patients was 35 years (17–71). The diagnosis included 9 hereditary multiple exostoses, 8 osteogenesis imperfecta, 6 multiple epiphyseal dysplasia congenita, 6 achondroplasia, 4 osteopetrosis, 3 pycnodysostosis, 3 hypophosphatemic rickets, 3 fibrous dysplasia, 2 mucopolysaccharidosis, and 10 miscellaneous. 25 patients were referred for hip problems (40 hips). 4 patients (7 hips) requiring a THA have not been operated (4 planned). 4 patients (6 hips) had a proximal femoral fixation (2 osteotomies, 4 fracture fixations). 17 patients (27 hips) sustained a THA (25 primary, 2 revisions). All of them were operated by one operator, using a posterolateral approach and standard implants (including 7 dysplastic and 2 short stems). No customized implant has been used. As regard the 27 THAs, the mean follow up was 4.2 years (1–12). The early complications included 2 femoral cracks and 1 femur fracture. There were 2 revisions (1 cup loosening at 2 years, 1 stem loosening at 4 years). No infection nor dislocation occurred. All the patients were satisfied with their treatment and regain some autonomy. 3 THA were considered as unfeasible. Constitutional bone diseases need a multidisciplinary program of care. The indication for surgery is based on a mutual trust patient/surgeon, a careful evaluation of benefits/risks, and an accurate imaging to anticipate the difficulties. The expected results are a better function and quality of life, and a stability over time

Periprosthetic femoral fractures are increasingly seen in recent years, adding considerable burden to the National Health Service. These require complex revision or fixation and prolonged post-operative care, with significant morbidity with associated costs. The purpose of this study was to assess whether the size of femoral cement mantle is associated with periprosthetic femoral fractures (PPF). This retrospective study was carried out on a cohort of 49 patients (Fracture Group - FG) who previously had a revision procedure following a proximal PPF between 2010 and 2021. Inclusion criteria – all primary cemented total hip replacements (THR). Exclusion criteria – complex primary THR, any implant malposition that required early revision surgery or any pre-fracture stem loosening. The antero-posterior (AP) radiographs from this cohort of patients were assessed and compared to an age, sex, time since THR-matched control group of 49 patients without PPF (Control Group - CG). Distal cement mantle area (DCMA) was calculated on an AP radiograph of hip; the position of the femoral stem tip prior to fracture was also recorded: valgus, varus or central. Limitations: AP radiographs only. Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft® Excel. Chi-square test demonstrated statistically significant difference in DCMA between FG and CG. DCMA of 700 to 900 mm² appeared to be protective when compared to DCMA of 0 to 300 mm². Also, a valgus position observed in 23% in FG Vs 4 % in CG increased the risk, with a smaller area of DCMA. This study demonstrates and recommends that a size of 700 – 900 mm² of the DCMA is protective against periprosthetic fractures, which are further influenced by the positioning of the distal stem tip. This could be due to the gradual decrease in the stiffness gradient from proximal to distal around the stem tip than steep changes, thereby decreasing possibility of a stress riser just distal to the cement mantle or restrictor. Further biomechanical research specific to this finding may be helpful to validate the observation, progressing to suggest a safe standardised surgical technique

Arthrofibrosis is a relatively frequent complication after total knee arthroplasty. Although stiffness after total hip arthroplasty (THA), because of formation of heterotopic ossification or other causes, is not uncommon, to the authors’ best knowledge, arthrofibrosis after THA has not been described. The aim of this study is to describe the arthrofibrosis of the hip after primary total hip arthroplasty using an established clinical and histological classification of arthrofibrosis. We retrospectively examined all patients who were histologically confirmed to have arthrofibrosis after primary THA during revision surgery by examination of tissue samples in our clinic. Arthrofibrosis was diagnosed according to the histopathological SLIM-consensus classification, which defines seven different SLIM types of the periimplant synovial membrane. The SLIM type V determines the diagnosis of endoprosthesis-associated arthrofibrosis. The study population consists of 66 patients who were revised due to arthrofibrosis after primary THA. All patients had a limitation in range of motion prior to revision with a mean flexion of 90° (range from 40 to 125), mean internal rotation of 10° (range from 0 to 40) and mean external rotation of 20° (range from 0 to 50). All patients had histological SLIM type V arthrofibrosis, corresponding to endoprosthesis-associated arthrofibrosis. Histological examination revealed that seven patients (10.6%) had particle-induced and 59 patients (89.4%) had non-particle-induced arthrofibrosis. This is the first decription of endoprosthetic-associated arthrofibrosis after primary THA on the basis of a well-established histological classification. Our study results could enable new therapeutic and diagnostic opportunities in patients with such an arthrofibrosis. Surgeons should keep arthrofibrosis as a possible cause for stiffness and pain after primary total hip arthroplasty in mind. Level of evidence Diagnostic study, Level of Evidence IV. Thorsten Gehrke and Lara Althaus contributed equally to the writing of this manuscript

Aims. In the native hip, the hip capsular ligaments tighten at the limits of range of hip motion and may provide a passive stabilizing force to protect the hip against edge loading. In this study we quantified the stabilizing force vectors generated by capsular ligaments at extreme range of motion (ROM), and examined their ability to prevent edge loading. Methods. Torque-rotation curves were obtained from nine cadaveric hips to define the rotational restraint contributions of the capsular ligaments in 36 positions. A ligament model was developed to determine the line-of-action and effective moment arms of the medial/lateral iliofemoral, ischiofemoral, and pubofemoral ligaments in all positions. The functioning ligament forces and stiffness were determined at 5 Nm rotational restraint. In each position, the contribution of engaged capsular ligaments to the joint reaction force was used to evaluate the net force vector generated by the capsule. Results. The medial and lateral arms of the iliofemoral ligament generated the highest inbound force vector in positions combining extension and adduction providing anterior stability. The ischiofemoral ligament generated the highest inbound force in flexion with adduction and internal rotation (FADIR), reducing the risk of posterior dislocation. In this position the hip joint reaction force moved 0.8° inbound per Nm of internal capsular restraint, preventing edge loading. Conclusion. The capsular ligaments contribute to keep the joint force vector inbound from the edge of the acetabulum at extreme ROM. Preservation and appropriate tensioning of these structures following any type of hip surgery may be crucial to minimizing complications related to joint instability. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(9):594–601

Aims. Pelvic tilt (PT) can significantly change the functional orientation of the acetabular component and may differ markedly between patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients with stiff spines who have little change in PT are considered at high risk for instability following THA. Femoral component position also contributes to the limits of impingement-free range of motion (ROM), but has been less studied. Little is known about the impact of combined anteversion on risk of impingement with changing pelvic position. Methods. We used a virtual hip ROM (vROM) tool to investigate whether there is an ideal functional combined anteversion for reduced risk of hip impingement. We collected PT information from functional lateral radiographs (standing and sitting) and a supine CT scan, which was then input into the vROM tool. We developed a novel vROM scoring system, considering both seated flexion and standing extension manoeuvres, to quantify whether hips had limited ROM and then correlated the vROM score to component position. Results. The vast majority of THA planned with standing combined anteversion between 30° to 50° and sitting combined anteversion between 45° to 65° had a vROM score > 99%, while the majority of vROM scores less than 99% were outside of this zone. The range of PT in supine, standing, and sitting positions varied widely between patients. Patients who had little change in PT from standing to sitting positions had decreased hip vROM. Conclusion. It has been shown previously that an individual’s unique spinopelvic alignment influences functional cup anteversion. But functional combined anteversion, which also considers stem position, should be used to identify an ideal THA position for impingement-free ROM. We found a functional combined anteversion zone for THA that may be used moving forward to place total hip components. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(10):834–841

Introduction. Cross table lateral (CTL) radiographs are commonly used to measure acetabular component anteversion after total hip arthroplasty (THA). CTL measurements may differ by >10 degrees from CT scan measurements, but the reasons for this discrepancy are poorly understood. We compare anteversion measurements made on CTL radiographs and CT scans to identify spinopelvic parameters predictive of inaccuracy. Methods. THA patients (n=47) with preoperative spinopelvic radiographic analysis and postoperative CT scans were retrospectively reviewed. Acetabular component anteversion was measured on post-operative CTL radiographs, and CT scans using 3D reconstructions of the pelvis. Patients were grouped by error (CTL-CT)>10° (n=11) or <10° (n=36), and spinopelvic mobility parameters were compared using t-tests. Correlation between error and mobility parameters was assessed with Pearson coefficient. Results. Patients with CTL error >10° (range 10–14) had stiffer lumbar spines with less lumbar flexion (38° vs 47°, p=0.03), greater sagittal imbalance measured by pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis mismatch (6° vs −2°, p=0.04), more pelvic extension when seated (pelvic tilt −10° vs −2°, p=0.05), and greater change in pelvic tilt between supine and seated positions (13° vs 4°, p=0.04). The error of CTL measurements showed a positive correlation with increased CTL anteversion (r=0.5, p=0.001), standing lordosis (r=0.23, p=0.05), seated lordosis (r=0.4, p=0.01) and pelvic tilt change between supine and step-up positions (r=0.34, p=0.01). Discussion. Differences in spinopelvic mobility patterns may explain the variable accuracy of acetabular anteversion measurements on CTL radiographs. Patients with stiff spines and increased compensatory pelvic motion have less accurate measurements on CTL radiographs. Flexion of the contralateral hip is required to obtain clear CTL radiographs. In patients with a stiff lumbar spine, this movement may extend the pelvis and increase anteversion of the acetabulum on CTL views. Reliable analysis of acetabular component anteversion in this patient population may require advanced imaging with a CT scan

Aims. Uncemented metal acetabular components show good osseointegration, but material stiffness causes stress shielding and retroacetabular bone loss. Cemented monoblock polyethylene components load more physiologically; however, the cement bone interface can suffer fibrous encapsulation and loosening. It was hypothesized that an uncemented titanium-sintered monoblock polyethylene component may offer the optimum combination of osseointegration and anatomical loading. Methods. A total of 38 patients were prospectively enrolled and received an uncemented monoblock polyethylene acetabular (pressfit) component. This single cohort was then retrospectively compared with previously reported randomized cohorts of cemented monoblock (cemented) and trabecular metal (trabecular) acetabular implants. The primary outcome measure was periprosthetic bone density using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry over two years. Secondary outcomes included radiological and clinical analysis. Results. Although there were differences in the number of males and females in each group, no significant sex bias was noted (p = 0.080). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in age (p = 0.910) or baseline lumbar bone mineral density (BMD) (p = 0.998) found between any of the groups (pressfit, cemented, or trabecular). The pressfit implant initially behaved like the trabecular component with an immediate fall in BMD in the inferior and medial regions, with preserved BMD laterally, suggesting lateral rim loading. However, the pressfit component subsequently showed a reversal in BMD medially with recovery back towards baseline, and a continued rise in lateral BMD. This would suggest that the pressfit component begins to reload the medial bone over time, more akin to the cemented component. Analysis of postoperative radiographs revealed no pressfit component subsidence or movement up to two years postoperatively (100% interobserver reliability). Medial defects seen immediately postoperatively in five cases had completely resolved by two years in four patients. Conclusion. Initially, the uncemented monoblock component behaved similarly to the rigid trabecular metal component with lateral rim loading; however, over two years this changed to more closely resemble the loading pattern of a cemented polyethylene component with increasing medial pelvic loading. This indicates that the uncemented monoblock acetabular component may result in optimized fixation and preservation of retroacetabular bone stock. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):872–880