http://www.bjj.boneandjoint.org.uk/content/95-B/11_Supple_A/57.abstract

The short stem

promises and pitfalls

1. S. D. Stulberg, MD, Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery1; and
2. R. M. Patel, MD, Resident Physician in Orthopaedic Surgery2

+ Author Affiliations

1. 1Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 680 North Lakeshore Drive, Suite 924, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.
2. 2Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 North St. Clair, Suite 1350, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.

1. Correspondence should be sent to S. D. Stulberg; e-mail:jointsurg@northwestern.edu

Abstract

Conventional uncemented femoral implants provide dependable long-term fixation in patients with a wide range of functional requirements. Yet challenges associated with proximal–distal femoral dimensional mismatch, preservation of bone stock, and minimally invasive approaches have led to exploration into alternative implant designs. Short stem designs focusing on a stable metaphyseal fit have emerged to address these issues in total hip replacement (THR). Uncemented metaphyseal-engaging short stem implants are stable and are associated with proximal bone remodeling closer to the metaphysis when compared with conventional stems and they also have comparable clinical performances. Short stem metaphyseal-engaging implants can meet the goals of a successful THR, including tolerating a high level of patient function, as well as durable fixation.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B, Supple A:57–62.

Footnotes

• No benefits in any form have been received or will be received from a commercial party related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
  This paper is based on a study which was presented at the Inaugural 2012 Current Concepts in Joint Replacement® – A Short Course held in conjunction with the 7th International Congress of the Chinese Orthopaedic Association in Beijing, China, 16th November.

• Received September 7, 2013.
• Accepted September 8, 2013.

• ©2013 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery