Our Experience with the Thrust Plate Prosthesis

Abstract

Conventional cemented total hip prostheses in young patients show radiological and clinical signs of loosening in 70% of cases after 10 years [1–3]. Better long-term results are obtained, however, in elderly patients. Although new types of prostheses with better anchorage have improved results, the long-term integration of prostheses in the host bone still raises problems. The search for more physiological stressing of the femur led to the metaphyseal type of anchorage, the best example of which is the thrust plate prosthesis (TPP). Apart from the biomechanical rationale, this prosthesis allows preservation of bone stock and unimpaired vascularization. It can also easily be replaced by conventional stem prosthesis if this is required. Its design, material, and surface finish are optimal (see Chap. 2, this volume).