Techniques for improving the initial strength of the tibial tray-cement interface bond

Cement Viscosity and Application Time Lead to Significant Changes in Cement Penetration and Contact Surface Area

Background

Application time and viscosity are factors that can significantly affect the properties of bone cement and implant fixation. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different application times of 2 different cements on mechanical parameters, cement interdigitation, and cement distribution.

Methods

P.F.C. Sigma tibial trays were cemented with high-viscous Palacos R and medium- to low-viscous Simplex P in an open-cell model. The application was performed at different times within the manufacturer's specifications. Cement interdigitation and micromotion were measured with computed tomography scan using a novel method.

Results

Significant differences of insertion forces were found at all times of cement application. Cement penetration decreased with increasing pressure and viscosity. No significant differences were shown for micromotion between Palacos R and Simplex P except for an increase for Simplex P from 3 to 7 minutes at the bone-cement interface. Simplex P appeared to trap air at the implant-cement interface at 3 minutes and increased at 7 minutes.

Conclusions

Cement distribution and intrusion of Palacos R and Simplex P decreased with time. Simplex P trapped air at the implant-cement interface, decreasing the amount of contact at the implant-cement interface, which is worrisome for long-term implant fixation. Given the significant changes in cement properties after mixing, it is necessary for surgeons to understand the viscosity and timing of cement application to achieve optimal cement penetration and surface contact area to potentially decrease implant loosening. High-viscous Palacos R should be applicated immediately with doughing time and medium-viscous Simplex P for about 4 minutes considering a threshold of minimum pressure.

Comparison of different cementing techniques for cement penetration under tibial component in total knee arthroplasty: a retrospective observational study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the differences in cement penetration between cementing techniques in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated knee undergone TKA at our hospital for both preoperative and postoperative computed tomographic (CT) evaluations. Cementing was performed with hand mixing and hand packing (HM group) and with vacuum mixing and cement gun use (VM group). We measured the area under the tibial baseplate (sclerotic and nonsclerotic sides) and compared the mean and maximum depths of cement penetration at each area.

RESULTS

Of the 44 knees evaluated, 20 and 24 knees were in the HM and VM groups, respectively. At the center of the sclerotic side, the mean penetration depths (2.0 ± 0.7 and 2.5 ± 0.7 mm, p = 0.02) and the maximum penetration depths (4.0 ± 0.9 and 5.0 ± 1.6 mm, p = 0.02) were significantly deeper in the VM group than in the HM group. The correlation between preoperative Hounsfield unit values and mean penetration were r = -0.617 (p < 0.01) and -0.373 (p = 0.01) in the HM and VM groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The cementing technique of vacuum mixing and using a cement gun allowed for deeper cement penetration compared with the hand mixing and hand packing technique, even in bone sclerotic sites.

Is there an increased revision rate due to early tibial component loosening with a modern total knee arthroplasty design? A retrospective analysis from a large volume arthroplasty centre

BACKGROUND

The Attune TKR was introduced in 2011 as a successor to its predicate design The PFC Sigma. However, following reports of early failures, there are ongoing concerns related to increased loosening rates. Given the concerns, this study aimed to compare revision rates of the Attune implant to an established predicate, and other implant designs used in a high-volume arthroplasty center.

METHODS

We identified 10,202 patients who underwent primary cemented TKR at our institution with a minimum of 1 year follow-up, involving 2406 Attune TKR (557 S +), 4642 PFC TKR, 3154 other designs. Primary outcomes were revision for all-causes, aseptic loosening of any component, and aseptic tibial loosening. Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression models were used to compare groups. Matched cohorts were selected for radiographic analysis.

RESULTS

308 knees were revised. The Attune cohort had the lowest risk of revision, with a rate of 2.98 per 1000 implant-years while the PFC and All Other Implant groups had a rate of 3.15 and 4.4 respectively. Aseptic loosing was the most common cause for revision, with 76% (65/88) involving the tibia. Survival analysis showed no significant differences between the Attune and other cohorts. Radiolucent lines were detected in 7.1% of the Attune S + group, 6.8% of the standard Attune group, and 6.3% of the PFC group, with no significant differences found between them.

CONCLUSION

This study represents the largest non-registry review of the Attune TKR in comparison to a predicate and other designs. There was no significant increased revision rate for all-cause revision or aseptic loosening, or peri-implant radiolucencies. It appears that increased loosening may not be as concerning as originally thought.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Effects of implant precoating and fat contamination on the stability of the tibial baseplate

BACKGROUND

Approximately 5% of primary total knee arthroplasty patients require revision within 10 years, often due to distal component loosening. Application of a thin layer of PMMA cement as precoating on the tibial component aims to prevent aseptic loosening. This study investigates the impact of precoating and fat contamination on tibial baseplate stability.

METHODS

Two groups of NexGen® stemmed tibial implants (size 4) were studied: Option implants (N = 12) and PMMA Precoat implants (N = 12). Each implant design was divided into two subgroups, (N = 6), with one subgroup featuring bone marrow fat at the implant-cement interface and the other without contamination. In a mechanical testing machine, the implants underwent uniaxial loading for 20,000 cycles, while recording vertical micromotion and migration of the tibial baseplates. Subsequently, a push-out test assessed fixation strength at the cement interfaces. Results were compared using non-parametric statistics and presented as median and min-to-max ranges.

RESULTS

Option implants exhibited higher micromotion in dry conditions compared to precoated implants (p = 0.03). Under contamination, both designs demonstrated similar micromotion values. Fixation strength did not significantly differ between designs under dry, uncontaminated conditions (p > 0.99). However, under contaminated conditions, the failure load for the non-coated Option implant was nearly half that of the uncontaminated counterparts (3517 N, 2603-4367 N vs 7531 N, 5163-9000 N; p = 0.002). Precoat implants displayed less susceptibility to fat contamination (p = 0.30).

CONCLUSION

NexGen® implant PMMA precoating might reduce the risk of aseptic loosening and revision surgery in case of eventual bone-marrow fat contamination.

Application of bone cement directly to the implant in primary total knee arthroplasty. Short-term radiological and clinical follow-up of two different cementing techniques

PURPOSE

This study aimed to optimize cement application techniques in fully cemented primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by comparing the effects of two different approaches: cement on bone surface (CoB) versus cement on bone surface and implant surface (CoBaI) on the short-term presence of radiolucent lines (RLL) as indicators of potential complications.

METHODS

In this monocentric study, a total of 379 fully cemented primary TKAs (318 patients) were included. The two study groups were differentiated by the technique of cement application: CoB group (cement applied only on bone surface) and CoBaI group (cement applied on both bone surface and implant surface). The presence of RLL or osteolysis was evaluated using the updated Knee Society Radiographic Evaluation System.

RESULTS

In the whole study population, RLL were present in 4.7% of cases, with a significantly higher incidence in the CoBaI group (10.5%) at the 4-week follow-up. At the 12-month follow-up, RLL were observed in 29.8% of TKAs in the CoBaI group, while the incidence was lower in the CoB group (24.0%) (not statistically significant). There were two revisions in each group, none of which were due to aseptic loosening.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest that the application of bone cement on bone surface only (CoB) may be more beneficial than applying it on both bone surface and implant surface (CoBaI) in terms of short-term presence of RLL in fully cemented primary TKA. Long-term results, especially with regard to aseptic loosening, will be of interest and may provide valuable guidance for future directions in bone cement applications in TKA.

[The third-generation modern cementing technique in hip and knee arthroplasty]

BACKGROUND

Implant loosening is the most common reason for revision surgery.

OBJECTIVES

Contribution of modern cementing technique to the long-term stability of an implant.

METHODS

Evaluation of the available evidence on modern cementing technique.

RESULTS

Modern cementing technique in hip arthroplasty is considered established and leads to better cementing results. In knee arthroplasty, there are also specific recommendations, including intensive cleaning of the bone bed, mixing of bone cement under vacuum and application of bone cement to the implant and the bone.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of modern cementing technique in hip and knee arthroplasty facilitates cementing, increases safety, and minimizes the risk of mechanical loosening.

Does lucency equate to revision? A five-year retrospective review of Attune and Triathlon total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The Attune® total knee arthroplasty system was introduced in 2013 to address lingering issues of patient dissatisfaction. However, recent literature reports concerns of early tibial tray debonding. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of radiolucent lines, survivorship and patient reported outcome-measures between the Attune® system and the well-established Triathlon® system.

METHODS

This retrospective database review was conducted at a single institution in Cork, Ireland. All primary Attune® (N = 445) and Triathlon® (N = 285) systems implanted between 2015 and 2016 were reviewed. Radiolucent lines were assessed for those with a minimum two-year radiological follow-up (Attune® = 338; Triathlon® = 231). X-rays were taken post op, at 6 months, 2 years and 5 years. Radiolucent lines were documented using the Modern Knee Society Radiographic System. Five-year survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis with the Log Rank method to determine statistical significance. The Oxford Knee Score and EQ-5D-5L, were collected pre-op, at 6 months, 2 years and 5 years post-operatively and compared using the Kruskal-Wallis Test.

RESULTS

The Attune® had a higher proportion of radiolucent lines at the tibial tray [87.1% (54/62) vs 61.4% (27/44); p = 0.001] and at the implant-cement interface [62.9% (39/62) vs 43.2% (19/44); p = 0.02]. Conversely, the Triathlon® had a higher proportion AT the femur [38.6% (17/44) vs 12.9% (8/62); p = 0.001] and at the cement-bone interface [56.8% (25/44) vs 37.1% (23/62); p = 0.02]. The overall frequency of radiolucent lines was similar in both the Attune® and Triathlon® groups [17.8%, (60/338) vs 17.7%, (41/231); p = 0.49]. There was no difference in revision-free survival analysis at 5 years (Attune® 97.8% vs Triathlon® 95.8%; p = 0.129). The Attune® performed better at 5 years in the Oxford Knee Score [Attune® = 42.6 (SD 5.2) vs Triathlon® = 41 (SD 6.4); p = 0.001] and in the EQ-5D [Attune® = 0.773 (SD 0.187) vs Triathlon® = 0.729 (SD 0.218); p = 0.013]. There was no difference at 5 years in the EQ-VAS [Attune® = 80.4 (SD 13.7) vs Triathlon® = 78.5 (SD 15.3); p = 0.25].

CONCLUSION

The Attune® system exhibited a higher incidence of  radiolucent lines at the tibial tray. However, this did not lead to decreased survivorship at medium term follow-up compared to the Triathlon®. Furthermore, improvements in patient reported outcomes modestly favoured the Attune® system.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Cementing Techniques In Knee Surgery (CeTIKS): a UK expert consensus study

Aims

Aseptic loosening is the most common cause of failure following cemented total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and has been linked to poor cementation technique. We aimed to develop a consensus on the optimal technique for component cementation in TKA.

Methods

A UK-based, three-round, online modified Delphi Expert Consensus Study was completed focusing on cementation technique in TKA. Experts were identified as having a minimum of five years' consultant experience in the NHS and fulfilling any one of the following criteria: a 'high volume' knee arthroplasty practice (> 150 TKAs per annum) as identified from the National joint Registry of England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man; a senior author of at least five peer reviewed articles related to TKA in the previous five years; a surgeon who is named trainer for a post-certificate of comletion of training fellowship in TKA.

Results

In total, 81 experts (round 1) and 80 experts (round 2 and 3) completed the Delphi Study. Four domains with a total of 24 statements were identified. 100% consensus was reached within the cement preparation, pressurization, and cement curing domains. 90% consensus was reached within the cement application domain. Consensus was not reached with only one statement regarding the handling of cement during initial application to the tibial and/or femoral bone surfaces.

Conclusion

The Cementing Techniques In Knee Surgery (CeTIKS) Delphi consensus study presents comprehensive recommendations on the optimal technique for component cementing in TKA. Expert opinion has a place in the hierarchy of evidence and, until better evidence is available these recommendations should be considered when cementing a TKA.

Trends in Total Knee Arthroplasty Cementing Technique Among Arthroplasty Surgeons-A Survey of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons Members

BACKGROUND

Aseptic loosening persists as one of the leading causes of failure following cemented primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Cement technique may impact implant fixation. We hypothesized that there is variability in TKA cement technique among arthroplasty surgeons.

METHODS

A 28-question survey regarding variables in surgeons' preferred TKA cementation technique was distributed to 2,791 current American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) members with a response rate of 30.8% (903 respondents). Patterns of responses were analyzed by grouping respondents by their answers to certain questions including cementing technique, tibial cement location, and femoral cement location.

RESULTS

A total of 73.5% reported performing at least 7 of 8 of the highest consensus techniques, including vacuum mixing (79.9%), using two bags (76.1%), tibial implant first (95.2%), single-stage cementing (96.9%), compression of the implants in extension (91.7%), and use of a tourniquet (84.3%). Medium and high viscosity cement was most commonly used (37.9 and 37.8%, respectively). Finger pressurization was most common (76.1%) compared to a gun (29.8%). There were 26.5% of respondents performing 6 or fewer of the most common majority techniques and seemed to perform other less common techniques (eg, use of a single bag of cement, trialing or closure prior to cement curing, and heating to accelerate cement curing). Cement was most commonly applied to the entire bone and implant surface on both the tibia (46.4%) and femur (47.7%), leaving much variation in the remaining cement application location responses.

DISCUSSION

There appears to be variability in cemented TKA technique among arthroplasty surgeons. There were 26.5% of respondents performing less of the majority techniques and also performed other additional low-response rate techniques. Further studies that look at the impacts of variation in techniques on outcomes may be warranted. Our study demonstrates the need for defining best practices for cement technique given the substantial variability identified.

Effect of commonly used lavage solutions on the polymerization of bone cement

INTRODUCTION

Little is known about the impact irrigation solutions have on the material properties of cement used in hip and knee arthroplasty. We sought to compare the effect of three commonly used lavage solutions on cement polymerization.

METHODS

Ten groups were used for cure and mechanical testing: two cement controls, and eight cement groups mixed with test solutions. Test solutions included a commercially available benzalkonium chloride/citric acid solution (BCS), chlorhexidine gluconate (0.05%) (CHG), povidone-iodine 0.35%, and normal saline added at cement mixing onset. Cement dough-time, set-time, and compression testing were performed following The American Society for Testing and Materials guidelines.

RESULTS

Povidone-iodine had shorter dough-time (1min 34sec, sd 1min 5sec) versus controls (1min 56sec, sd 1min 35sec), p=0.0419. Cement exposed to all lavage samples had significantly reduced set-time. Compressive strength was reduced for all surgical lavages (p<0.001). Pairwise testing revealed that all lavage treatments reduced offset strength versus controls (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Bone cement exposed to lavage solutions during the cement mixing-phase showed accelerated set-times and decreased compressive strength. If bone is not dry, and cement has not finished mixing at the time of application, cement curing time may be shortened. Additionally, bone cement should reach dough phase prior to pre-closure surgical lavage.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III; case control study.

Endurance Behavior of Cemented Tibial Tray Fixation Under Anterior Shear and Internal-External Torsional Shear Testing: A New Methodological Approach

BACKGROUND

Early total knee arthroplasty failures continue to surface in the literature. Cementation technique and implant design are two of the most important scenarios that can affect implant survivorship. Our objectives were to develop a more suitable preclinical test to evaluate the endurance of the implant-cement-bone interface under anterior shear and internal-external (I/E) torsional shear testing condition in a biomechanical sawbones.

METHODS

Implants tested included the AS VEGA System PS and the AS Columbus CR/PS (Aesculap AG, Germany), with zirconium nitride (ZrN) coating. Tibial implants were evaluated under anterior shear and I/E torsional shear conditions with 6 samples in 4 test groups. For the evaluation of the I/E torsional shear endurance behavior, a test setup was created allowing for clinically relevant I/E rotation with simultaneous high axial/tibio-femoral load. The test was performed with an I/E displacement of ±17.2°, for 1 million cycles with an axial preload of 3,000 N.

RESULTS

After the anterior shear test an implant-cement-bone fixation strength for the AS VEGA System tibial tray of 2,674 ± 754 N and for the AS Columbus CR/PS tibial tray of 2,177 ± 429 N was determined (P = .191). After I/E rotational shear testing an implant-cement-bone fixation strength for the AS VEGA System PS tray of 2,561 ± 519 N and for the AS Columbus CR/PS tray of 2,824 ± 515 N was resulted (P = .39).

CONCLUSION

Both methods had varying degrees of failure modes from debonding to failure of the sawbones foam. These two intense biomechanical loading tests are more strenuous and more representative of clinical activity.

The Effect of Working Time and Application Technique on Cement Penetration into a Tibial Model

Background

Aseptic loosening of the cemented tibial component is a source of failure in total knee arthroplasty. This study examined common techniques for cement application by quantifying depth and volume of penetration into tibia models.

Material and methods

Thirty-six composite tibia models were cemented with a tibial component using 3 application techniques (gun, osteotome, and layered) with either early or late cement working time. Computed tomography and 3D-modeling were used to quantify volume and depth of penetration. Statistical analysis was conducted with analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction and Student’s t-test.

Results

No difference was found in overall volume of penetration between early and late cement application (P = .16). Beneath the baseplate, the layered technique had significantly less penetration and averaged less than 3 mm with early and late cement. The gun technique had the greatest depth of penetration with early cement and averaged greater than 3 mm in all zones regardless of cement working time. The osteotome technique achieved significantly greater depth of penetration around the keel with early and late cement, P < .01.

Conclusions

Using a cement gun ensures adequate penetration beneath the baseplate regardless of cement working time while the osteotome technique is effective to increase penetration around the implant keel. According to our study, applying cement early in its working time may not increase volume of penetration. This study raises concern regarding adequate cement penetration using the layered technique for cementing the tibial component in total knee arthroplasty, and future research is warranted.

Chitranjan S. Ranawat Award: Motion During Total Knee Cementing Significantly Decreases Tibial Implant Fixation Strength

BACKGROUND

Aseptic tibial loosening following primary total knee arthroplasty persists despite technique and device-related advancements. The mechanisms for this mode of failure are not well understood. We hypothesized that knee movement while the cement was curing dispersed lipids at the implant-cement interface and would result in decreased tibial fixation strength.

METHODS

A cadaveric study was performed utilizing 32 torso-to-toe specimens (64 knees). Four contemporary total knee arthroplasty designs were evaluated. Each implant design was randomly assigned to a cadaveric specimen pair with side-to-side randomization. Specimen densitometry was recorded. Each tibial implant was cemented using a standard technique. On one side, the tibial component was held without motion following impaction until complete cement polymerization. The contralateral knee tibial implant was taken through gentle range of motion and stability assessment 7 minutes after cement mixing. Axial tibial pull-out strength and interface failure examination was performed on each specimen.

RESULTS

The average pull-out strength for the no motion cohort (5,462 N) exceeded the motion cohort (4,473 N) (P = .001). The mean pull-out strength between implant designs in the no motion cohort varied significantly (implant A: 7,230 N, B: 5,806 N, C: 5,325 N, D 3,486 N; P = .007). Similarly, the motion cohort inter-implant variance was significant (P ≤ .001). Intra-implant pull-out strength was significantly higher in implant A than D. The average pull-out strength was significantly lower in specimens that failed at the implant-cement interface vs bone failures (4,089 ± 2,158 N vs 5,960 ± 2,010 N, P < .0025).

CONCLUSION

Knee motion during cement polymerization is associated with significant decreases in tibial implant fixational strength. Reduction in implant pull-out strength was identified with each implant design with motion and varied between designs. Across all tested designs, we recommend limiting motion while cementing the tibial implant to improve fixation strength.

Does tibial design modification improve implant stability for total knee arthroplasty? An experimental cadaver study

Aims

One of the main causes of tibial revision surgery for total knee arthroplasty is aseptic loosening. Therefore, stable fixation between the tibial component and the cement, and between the tibial component and the bone, is essential. A factor that could influence the implant stability is the implant design, with its different variations. In an existing implant system, the tibial component was modified by adding cement pockets. The aim of this experimental in vitro study was to investigate whether additional cement pockets on the underside of the tibial component could improve implant stability. The relative motion between implant and bone, the maximum pull-out force, the tibial cement mantle, and a possible path from the bone marrow to the metal-cement interface were determined.

Methods

A tibial component with (group S: Attune S+) and without (group A: Attune) additional cement pockets was implanted in 15 fresh-frozen human leg pairs. The relative motion was determined under dynamic loading (extension-flexion 20° to 50°, load-level 1,200 to 2,100 N) with subsequent determination of the maximum pull-out force. In addition, the cement mantle was analyzed radiologically for possible defects, the tibia base cement adhesion, and preoperative bone mineral density (BMD).

Results

The BMD showed no statistically significant difference between both groups. Group A showed for all load levels significantly higher maximum relative motion compared to group S for 20° and 50° flexion. Group S improved the maximum failure load significantly compared to group A without additional cement pockets. Group S showed a significantly increased cement adhesion compared to group A. The cement penetration and cement mantle defect analysis showed no significant differences between both groups.

Conclusion

From a biomechanical point of view, the additional cement pockets of the component have improved the fixation performance of the implant.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(4):229–238.

Cement debonding behaviors of the various tibial components of the ATTUNE knee system and its predecessors: Is a cement-in-cement revision an alternative?

BACKGROUND

Aseptic loosening remains one of the most common causes of revision of the tibial component for total knee arthroplasty. A stable bond between implant and cement is essential for appropriate long-term results. The aim of our in vitro study was to investigate the maximum failure load of tibial ATTUNE prosthesis design alternatives compared with a previous design. In addition, cement-in-cement revision was considered as a potential strategy after tibial component debonding.

METHODS

The experimental investigations of the maximum failure load of the implant-cement interface were performed under optimal conditions, without potential contamination. We compared the designs of the tibial components of the ATTUNE, ATTUNE S+ and P.F.C. Sigma. In addition, we investigated the cement-in-cement revision for the ATTUNE knee system replacing it with an ATTUNE S+.

RESULTS

The maximum failure load showed no significant difference between P.F.C. Sigma and ATTUNE groups (P = 0.087), but there was a significant difference between the P.F.C. Sigma and the ATTUNE S+ groups (P < 0.001). The analysis also showed a significant difference (P < 0.001) between the ATTUNE and the ATTUNE S+ groups for the maximum failure load. The ATTUNE S+ cement-in-cement revision group showed a significant higher failure load (P < 0.001) compared with the P.F.C. Sigma and ATTUNE groups. No significant differences (P = 1.000) were found between the ATTUNE S+ cement-in-cement and ATTUNE S+ group.

CONCLUSION

Based on these results, we found no design-specific evidence of increased debonding risk with the ATTUNE and ATTUNE S+ components compared with the P.F.C Sigma. Furthermore, the cement-in-cement revision seems to be an alternative for the revision surgery.

Hybrid Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty has lower residual cement extrusion than cemented arthroplasty in treating end-stage unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis

Background

Hybrid Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (OUKA) consists of cementless femoral prostheses and cemented tibial prostheses. Although a hybrid OUKA has been used in clinical practice, the clinical outcome has not been reported. The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term clinical outcomes and rate of residual bone cement extrusion between hybrid and cemented prostheses and analyse the possible reasons for differences between outcomes.

Methods

A total of 128 knees (118 patients) with end-stage osteoarthritis were included in this study, of which underwent consecutive operations using unicondylar Oxford phase 3 implants from July 2017 and September 2019 in our centre. Follow-up was performed at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months, 1 year and every year after operation, and complications and changes in the Oxford knee score (OKS) were recorded. The OKS of the two groups was analysed by the generalized estimating equation approach. Prosthesis-based standard fluoroscopy was performed in a timely manner after each operation, and the rate of residual cement extrusion of the two groups was estimated using T-tests and a multivariate regression analysis.

Results

Excluding the cases that lost follow-up, a total of 120 knees (65 in hybrid group and 55 in cemented group) were included in the analysis. There was no statistically significant difference in patient characteristics between the two groups (p > 0.05). The average follow-up time was 23.4 months (and ranged from 12 to 38 months). As of the last follow-up, there were no complications, such as dislocation, fracture, prosthesis loosening and subsidence, but one patient in the cemented group experienced symptoms caused by residual loose cement. Postoperative OKS in both groups improved significantly (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the OKS at any point during the follow-up or in the improvement of the OKS between the two groups (p > 0.05). Residual cement was mainly extruded behind the tibial prosthesis. The rate of hybrid periprosthetic residual cement extrusion was significantly lower in the hybrid group than in the cemented group, and the difference was statistically significant (OR = 3.38; p = 0.014).

Conclusions

Hybrid OUKA is as effective as cemented OUKA in the short term after operation and can significantly reduce the residual cement extrusion rate around the tibial prosthesis.

Improving the cementation of the tibial component in knee arthroplasty : a study of four techniques in the cadaver

AIMS

The main objective of this study is to analyze the penetration of bone cement in four different full cementation techniques of the tibial tray.

METHODS

In order to determine the best tibial tray cementation technique, we applied cement to 40 cryopreserved donor tibiae by four different techniques: 1) double-layer cementation of the tibial component and tibial bone with bone restrictor; 2) metallic cementation of the tibial component without bone restrictor; 3) bone cementation of the tibia with bone restrictor; and 4) superficial bone cementation of the tibia and metallic keel cementation of the tibial component without bone restrictor. We performed CT exams of all 40 subjects, and measured cement layer thickness at both levels of the resected surface of the epiphysis and the endomedular metaphyseal level.

RESULTS

At the epiphyseal level, Technique 2 gave the greatest depth compared to the other investigated techniques. At the endomedular metaphyseal level, Technique 1 showed greater cement penetration than the other techniques.

CONCLUSION

The best metaphyseal cementation technique of the tibial component is bone cementation with cement restrictor. Additionally, if full tibial component cementation is to be done, the cement volume used should be about 40 g of cement, and not the usual 20 g. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(8):467-473.

The Association Between Cement Viscosity and Revision Risk After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Recent case series have reported early failure with the use of high-viscosity cement (HVC) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We evaluated revision risk after TKA with HVC compared with medium-viscosity cement (MVC) in a large cohort.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study using data from Kaiser Permanente's Total Joint Replacement Registry. Patients who underwent fully cemented primary TKA for osteoarthritis were identified (2001-2018). Only posterior-stabilized, fixed-mobility designs of the 3 highest-volume implant systems (DePuy PFC, Zimmer NexGen, and Zimmer Persona) were included to mitigate confounding from implant characteristics. Palacos (Zimmer/Heraeus) and Simplex (Stryker) cements comprised the HVC and MVC exposure groups, respectively. Propensity score-weighted Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate risk for any revision during follow-up and risk for revision from aseptic loosening specifically.

RESULTS

The final cohort comprised 76,052 TKAs, 41.1% using MVC. The crude 14-year cumulative revision probability was 4.55% and 5.12% for TKA with MVC and HVC, respectively. In propensity score-weighted Cox models, MVC compared with HVC had a lower risk of any revision (hazard ratio = 0.82, 95% confidence interval = 0.70-0.95) while no difference was observed for revision from aseptic loosening (hazard ratio = 0.80, 95% confidence interval = 0.56-1.13).

CONCLUSION

While we observed a lower risk for any revision with the use of Simplex MVC compared with Palacos HVC, we did not observe a difference in revision for aseptic loosening specifically. Given the widespread use of HVC, additional research to investigate other HVC and potential mechanisms for failure outside of loosening is warranted.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Aseptic Tibial Implant Loosening After Total Knee Arthroplasty: Preventable?

Aseptic loosening is a considerable complication that affects the longevity of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) implants. Surgeon technique may help minimize aseptic loosening after TKA. Meticulous cementation of the prosthesis and the bone surface during various stages of cement polymerization will maximize cement adherence to the prosthesis and the bone, respectively. Pressurization of the cement in the canal and at the cut surface to achieve at least 2 mm of cement depth penetration has been reported to increase TKA implant longevity.

Tourniquetless Total Knee Arthroplasty: History, Controversies, and Technique

We present a literature review with technique for tourniquetless TKA for surgeons interested in transitioning away from the tourniquet. Tourniquet use provides a bloodless field and improved visualization with decreased intraoperative blood loss, but the arguments for tourniquet use of improved cement fixation and decreased overall blood loss have not been supported by the literature. Regarding recovery, tourniquetless TKA has demonstrated less postoperative pain and improved knee function. There is also the potential for patient harm with tourniquet use. The process of tourniquetless TKA begins preoperatively with anemia screening and treatment. Tranexamic acid decreases the overall blood loss and blood transfusion risk. We recommend preemptive analgesia. The surgery is performed with the knee flexed for a near bloodless field. For cementation, the knee irrigation removes lipids from the exposed bone along with meticulous cement technique. Tourniquetless TKA is able to be safely performed on a routine basis and brings potential benefits to the patient with no evident increased risk in comparison to tourniquet use.

A Biomechanical Comparison of the Effect of Baseplate Design and Bone Marrow Fat Infiltration on Tibial Baseplate Pullout Strength

BACKGROUND

Early clinical results of a new total knee arthroplasty (TKA) implant design show promise for improved outcomes and patellofemoral function scores. However, reports of early tibial component-cement interface debonding requiring revision have been published. This study investigated the biomechanical properties of three different tibial baseplates to understand potential causes of failure.

METHODS

PFC Sigma (control), Attune (1st generation) and Attune S+ (2nd generation) tibial baseplates were implanted into 4th generation sawbone tibia models using a standardized technique. Three of each baseplate were cemented with and without additional bovine bone marrow fat. All models were tested to failure with measured axial distraction force. Implant type, presence or absence of bovine marrow and load to failure were all recorded and compared. Two-way ANOVA followed by post-hoc pairwise comparisons were used to determine statistical significance, which was set to P < .05.

RESULTS

The 2nd generation tibial baseplates required significantly more force to failure. The presence of bovine marrow significantly reduced the pullout force of the implant designs overall. No significant difference was detected between the 1st generation and control baseplates. Failure mode for each model was also noted to be different irrespective of the presence or absence of bone marrow fat.

CONCLUSION

The 2nd generation baseplates required significantly more force to failure compared with older designs. The presence of bone marrow during cementation of a tibial base plate significantly decreased axial pullout strength of a tibial baseplate in this laboratory model. All 1st generation baseplates exhibited debonding at the cement-implant interface.

Aseptic Loosening at the Tibia in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Function of Cement Mantle Quality?

BACKGROUND

Aseptic loosening remains one of the leading causes for failure of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We sought to identify early radiographic measures that may associate with aseptic tibial component loosening, emphasizing systematic evaluation of the cement mantle.

METHODS

All TKA revisions from 2007 to 2015 with the primary indication of tibial aseptic loosening were identified using in an institutional implant retrieval database. After exclusion criteria, 61 TKAs comprised the study group. A matched control group of 59 TKAs that had not failed at a minimum of 3 years was identified for comparison. Radiographic analysis on all 6-week postoperative radiographs included angulation of components, cement penetration depth, and presence of radiolucency at the implant-cement and bone-cement interfaces. Groups were compared with Student's t-test, chi-squared test, and Mann-Whitney U-test. A final multivariable logistic regression model was formed for the outcome of aseptic loosening.

RESULTS

On multivariable analysis, failure was associated with a greater number of zones with cement penetration <2 mm (5.6 vs 3.4 zones, odds ratio [OR] 1.89, P < .001), increasing percent involvement of radiolucency at the implant-cement interface (8.7% vs 3.1%, OR = 1.15, P = .001), and increased varus alignment of the tibial component (1.5° vs 0°, OR = 1.35, P = .014). A greater number of zones with a radiolucent line at the bone-cement interface did not significantly associate (1.1 vs 0.3, P = .091).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that radiographic indicators of poor cement mantle quality associate with later aseptic loosening. This emphasizes the need for surgeons to perform careful cement technique in order to reduce the risk of TKA failure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III (Case-control).

High rate of tibial debonding and failure in a popular knee replacement: A cause for concern

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common orthopedic procedure with 975,739 performed in the UK between 2003 and 2016. The two most common prosthetics used are P.F.C. Sigma and NexGen. The aim of this study is to compare the experience of a single fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeon at a single dedicated orthopedic hospital using both of these prosthetics over a 17-year period.

METHODS

This study was carried out as a retrospective review. Information was gathered from a database of primary TKAs and revision TKAs, as well as medical records, correspondence and operative notes.

RESULTS

A total of 1,511 TKAs were performed between 1999 and 2015 - with a further follow-up period of 2 years. There were 1,161 consecutive P.F.C. primary TKAs done from 1999 to April 2013, after which, 350 consecutive NexGen primary TKAs were performed. Between 2015 and 2017, 26 NexGen revisions were required. 23 (6.6%) of the NexGen knees were carried out for aseptic loosening. The average time for revision from the NexGen index surgery was 30.4 months. The failures all presented similarly - with the tibial component having collapsed into varus and radiographic lucency noted under the implant.

CONCLUSION

In spite of changes in orthopedic practice and advances in implant technology over the time period of this study, we would not expect this level of implant failure from a surgeon who had no previous significant issues with aseptic loosening using a different prosthetic. Usage of the NexGen knee has been discontinued at this center.

Tibial Implant Fixation Behavior in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Study With Five Different Bone Cements

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study are to (1) evaluate if there is a potential difference in cemented implant fixation strength between tibial components made out of cobalt-chromium (CrCoMo) and of a ceramic zirconium nitride (ZrN) multilayer coating and to (2) test their behavior with 5 different bone cements in a standardized in vitro model for testing of the implant-cement-bone interface conditions. We also analyzed (3) whether initial fixation strength is a function of timing of the cement apposition and component implantation by an early, mid-term, and late usage within the cement-specific processing window.

METHODS

An in vitro study using a synthetic polyurethane foam model was performed to investigate the implant fixation strength after cementation of tibial components by a push-out test. A total of 20 groups (n = 5 each) was used: Vega PS CrCoMo tibia and Vega PS ZrN tibia with the bone cements BonOs R, SmartSet HV, Cobalt HV, Palacos R, and Surgical Simplex P, respectively, using mid-term cement apposition. Three different cement apposition times-early, mid-term, and late usage-were tested with a total of 12 groups (n = 5 each) with the bone cements BonOs R and SmartSet HV.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in implant-cement-bone fixation strength between CrCoMo and ZrN multilayer-coated Vega tibial trays tested with 5 different commonly used bone cements.

CONCLUSION

Apposition of bone cements and tibial tray implantation in the early to mid of the cement-specific processing window is beneficial in regard to interface fixation in TKA.

Cementing technique for primary knee arthroplasty: a scoping review

Background and purpose - The optimal cementing technique for primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains unclear. We therefore performed a scoping review based on available studies regarding cementation technique in primary TKA and unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA).Patients and methods - A search in 3 databases identified 1,554 studies. The inclusion criteria were literature that studied cementing technique in primary TKA or UKA. This included cement application methods, full or surface cementing, applying cement to the bone and/or prosthesis, stabilization of the implant during curing phase, bone irrigation technique, drilling holes in the bone, use of suction, and the timing of cementation. 57 studies met the inclusion criteria.Results - The evidence was unanimously in favor of pulsatile lavage irrigation, drying the bone, and drilling holes into the tibia during a TKA. All studies concerning suction recommended it during TKA cementation. 7 out of 11 studies favored the use of a cement gun and no studies showed that finger packing was statistically significantly better than using a cement gun. There is evidence that full cementation should be used if metal-backed tibial components are used. Applying the cement to both implant and bone seems to give better cement penetration.Interpretation - There are still many knowledge gaps regarding cementing technique in primary TKA. There seems to be sufficient evidence to recommend pulsatile lavage irrigation of the bone, drilling multiple holes, and drying the bone before cementing and implant insertion, and applying cement to both implant and on the bone.