Modular bipolar hemiarthroplasty for fracture neck of femur using contemporary cementing technique: Long-term results of a single design

Abstract

Introduction: The use of bipolar prosthesis in the management of displaced fracture neck of femur has remained controversial. There has been a lack of long-term studies in its results and survivorship, especially in acetabular erosion. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 108 single design bipolar hemiarthroplasties (105 patients) performed in a single centre between 1999 and 2008, with a mean follow-up of 7.4 years (range: 2.2–18.3 years). General indications of surgery include displaced fracture with age less than 75, narrow femoral canals not permitting the use of a monoblock implant or as salvage procedure for failed internal fixation. Results: Six hips (5%) required further surgery – two patients had debridement for infection and four patients required revision to total hip arthroplasty (THA) due to infection or aseptic loosening. There was no dislocation. No revision was required for acetabulum erosion. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a 15-year survival free of revision due to any reason to be 93.1% and due to aseptic loosening to be 97.1%. Discussion: Our centre has shown excellent clinical results and low revision rate with the cemented bipolar system. In the context of displaced fracture neck of femur, the long-term results can be compared with THA which is associated with higher perioperative morbidity.