Outcomes of polyethylene liner cementation into a fixed metal acetabular shell with minimum follow-up of 7 years

Cementation of a polyethylene liner into the well-fixed shell is a convenient option for revision total hip arthroplasty. We retrospectively reviewed 45 patients who had liner cementation to investigate the risk factors which gave rise to major complications and reoperation. Patients were observed for a minimum of 7 years (range 7.8-14 years). Relevant risk factors (age, BMI, surgical approach, previous cup size and position, types of coated surface) were assessed with Cox regression analysis. The mean Harris Hip Score was improved from 62.5 (range 57-68) preoperatively to 87.1 (range 70-97). A total of 7 hips (15.5%) had acetabular component loosening that was treated with reoperation. Prevalence of acetabular component loosening was statistically significantly higher in hydroxyapatite-coated group (5 of 13) than in the Ti-coated group (2 of 32, p = 0.015). All recurrent dislocations occurred in patients treated with a posterior approach. Diameter of the previous metal shell of below 54 mm showed a lower 10-year survival rate than those greater than 54 mm in diameter. PE liner cementation in stable metal cup is a useful alternative option for carefully selected patients. Pre-existing HA-coated cups as well as small sized cups were indicative of poor outcomes.