The use of short stems has been growing in THA for the past five years. As a result, a large number of short stem designs are available in the market place. However, fixation points differ for many of the designs resulting in different radiographic modeling creating confusion when trying to collate to clinical findings. We have created a classification system in an attempted to provide clarity in analyzing radiographic and clinical findings. Femoral implants described as “short stems” were evaluated. The range of lengths for stem type and the method of achieving initial implant stability was determined. The optimal radiographic position of each of these implants and type of bone remodeling associated with this placement was evaluated. Stems were defined as “short” if the tip reached or was proximal to the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction. This location on the proximal femur was defined as the place at which the medial-lateral metaphyseal flare became parallel. Stems were then classified as: 1.) Metaphyseal Stabilized; 2.) Neck Stabilized; 3.) Head Stabilized. An analysis of radiographic with a minimum of one year follow up were reviewed and posted as to the classification systemIntroduction
Method
