The use of modular femoral head trials to centre the Explant blade facilitates retrieval of well-fixed acetabular components with minimal bone loss

Background

The Zimmer-Explant system has made removal of a well-fixed monobloc acetabular component less challenging, but depends on the presence of an intact liner for instrument centralization. We report the outcome of 15 hips with well-fixed, cementless resurfacing sockets, which were removed using a modification of the existing method. We conclude that the existing Explant system combined with modular trial heads allows safe removal of monobloc shells with minimal bone loss.

Methods

Fifteen patients who underwent removal of a well-fixed, acetabular resurfacing component at the time of revision arthroplasty were identified from the unit’s prospective arthroplasty database from 2005.

Result

The final reamer used during reconstruction was only 1 or 2 mm larger than the outer diameter of the revised cup.