The acetabular component: An elliptical monoblock alternative

The major failure mode of cemented or noncemented acetabular fixation is osteolysis produced by biologic reaction to polyethylene and metallic debris. A monoblock acetabular noncemented component offers advantages in reducing the failure mechanism of acetabular cups. First, there is no extra-articular back surface polyethylene wear. Second, locking rings that may generate metallic debris are eliminated. Third, screw-holes, which decrease the surface area for ingrowth, are not needed, and pelvic entrance points for wear debris are eliminated. Fourth, an elliptical configuration allows better coaptation of the shell to the dome of the acetabulum. I have implanted >2,400 elliptical monoblock acetabular cups with a short-term follow-up of 6.5 years, with >4 years of follow-up in 840 hips. There have been no mechanical failures requiring revision. Four patients have been revised for recurrent hip instability, and one has been revised for infection. The need to convert to an acetabular component with screw fixation because of poor press-fit is <1%. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.