The use of Pulsed Lavage with Integral Suction in Total Hip Replacement

Both pulsatile lavage and distal femoral plugs are used routinely in preparation of the femoral canal prior to cementing. Using an in-vitro model, two types of pulsed lavage irrigation systems were tested to assess their relative abilities to clear the femoral canal of the polethylene vanes which commonly become detached from the Hardinge type of cement restrictor during insertion. The narrower tipped system, which did not incorporate an integral suction system, performed significantly better. Surgeons should be aware of this potential problem when preparing the femoral canal.