Novel concept of a modular hip implant could contribute to less implant failure in THA: a hypothesis.

Novel concept of a modular hip implant could contribute to less implant failure in THA: a hypothesis.
Patient Saf Surg. 2018;12:1
Authors: Grunert R, Schleifenbaum S, Möbius R, Kopper M, Rotsch C, Drossel WG, Hammer N, Prietzel T
Abstract
Background: The modularity in total hip arthroplasty (THA) allows orthopaedic surgeons for an exact reconstruction of hip biomechanical parameters especially in revision and tumor arthroplasty. Modular structured femoral stems using taper junctions showed increased implant breakage in the recent past.
Presentation of the hypothesis: We hypothesize that a novel modular stem-neck-interface leads to less implant breakage compared to conventional femoral stems.
Testing of the hypothesis: For this purpose, a novel modular femoral stem for THA was to design and manufacture. Therefore, three different variants of interface mechanisms were developed that enable a simple connection between the stem and the neck modules and allow for intra-operatively adjustment. Three prototypes A, B and C were manufactured and subsequently dynamic fatigue (ISO 7206-6) and body donor tested.
Implication of the hypothesis: Modularity in THA is mainly applied in THA as well as in revision and tumor arthroplasty. Modular implants are barely used because of the high risk of breakage. Another risks in this context are taper fretting, corrosion and disconnection. With the novel design, it should be possibl...

Source: Patient Safety in Surgery - January 13, 2018 Category: Surgery Authors: Grunert R, Schleifenbaum S, Möbius R, Kopper M, Rotsch C, Drossel WG, Hammer N, Prietzel T Tags: Patient Saf Surg Source Type: research