Cemented Lubinus and Furlog total hip endoprosthesis: a 12-year follow-up study of 175 hips comparing the cementing technique

We analyzed 175 total hip replacements with cemented Lubinus and Furlong arthroplasties in 164 patients with a median age of 65 (32–80) years and followed them for 12 years to evaluate and compare the efficacy of total hip prosthesis designs. Survival analysis was combined with an analysis of radiological findings and a study of functional outcome of the patients. The 12-year survival of Furlong arthroplasty in patients of 60 years of age and older was 0.85 (95% CI 1.00–0.52). The survival of Lubinus arthroplasty in patients younger than 60 years of age was 0.70 (0.91–0.48), while the survival in older patients was 0.75 (0.89–0.61). The 12-year survival of well-cemented Lubinus prosthesis was 0.91 (1.00–0.79), indicating the importance of the cementing technique. The survival of the cups was marginally better than that of the stems. In the 12-year follow-up study, the clinical state and function varied from hips ready for revision to hips where a continuously long survival could be predicted. Harris hip score did not differentiate between patients who had intact and loose components. We conclude that cemented arthroplasty affords a notable alternative with satisfactory long-term survival and function. The better survival of cemented cup than the stem may be utilized as a basis for “reverse” hybrid arthroplasty. Adequate long-term follow-up of all arthroplasties as a quality maintenance and to prevent difficult revisions is a major challenge.