A high offset stem design does not increase stem migration under full weight bearing in cementless total hip arthroplasty: a model-based RSA study.

Abstract

Background: High-offset stems in cementless primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) have been potentially associated with early aseptic femoral loosening. This study aimed to evaluate the primary and secondary stability of a cementless high-offset femoral component under full weight-bearing conditions using model-based RSA, comparing it with a standard offset stem in patients undergoing THA.

Methods: In this prospective, observational, single-center study, 42 patients with end-stage hip osteoarthritis underwent cementless primary THA using either a standard (SL-PLUS Standard) or a high-offset (SL-PLUS Lateral) cementless stem. Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) was employed to monitor stem migration at six weeks and three, six, twelve, and twenty-four months. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the modified Harris Hip Score (HHS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC).

Results: There were no significant differences in mean stem subsidence between the groups at any follow-up interval, indicating comparable primary and secondary stability. After minimal initial subsidence (SL-PLUS Standard: up to -0.54 mm; SL-PLUS Lateral: up to -0.73 mm), no further progressive migration was observed. A significant difference in stem anteversion was noted between the groups at six months (P = 0.021) and two years (P = 0.001). The SL-PLUS Lateral group had significantly better WOMAC scores at the two-year follow-up (P = 0.027).

Conclusions: This RSA study demonstrated similar migration patterns for the high-offset and standard-offset cementless stems within the first two years after operation. Both groups exhibited initial subsidence followed by high secondary stability. Based on the results of this study, the SL-PLUS Lateral is a safe alternative for patients with high femoral offset undergoing cementless THA.