Patient-specific instrumentation improves the accuracy of acetabular component placement in total hip arthroplasty

Aims

Accurate placement of the acetabular component during total hip arthroplasty (THA) is an important factor in the success of the procedure. However, the reported accuracy varies greatly and is dependent upon whether free hand or navigated techniques are used. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of an instrument system that incorporates 3D printed, patient-specific guides designed to optimise the placement of the acetabular component.

Patients and Methods

A total of 100 consecutive patients were prospectively enrolled and the accuracy of placement of the acetabular component was measured using post-operative CT scans.

Results

The mean absolute deviation from the planned inclination and anteversion was 3.9° (0.0° to 13.6°) and 3.6° (0.0° to 12.9°), respectively. In 91% of cases the planned target of +/-10° was achieved for both inclination and anteversion.

Conclusion

Accurate placement of the acetabular component can be achieved using patient-specific guides and is superior to free hand techniques and comparable to navigated and robotic techniques.