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Arthroplasty has become a very successful operation with excellent long-term results. A dedicated diagnostic set-up to exclude osteoporosis prior to a joint replacement and the use of drugs to improve the outcome of a joint replacement are currently not recommended. Knee arthroplasty should always be cemented in patients with known osteoporosis. The same is recommended for hip joint replacement, even if the cement-free acetabular component yields good results. Rapid loading and mobilization appear beneficial also with respect to the osteoporosis and its systemic treatment.

The objective of this study was a comparative analysis of cement augmentation by means of RFS and CSP with regard to outcome and cost-effectiveness.CT-guided cement augmentation was performed on 100 patients with a total of 168 non-dislocated insufficiency fractures, 50 patients being treated with RFS and 50 patients with CSP. Leakages were detected by CT. Pain intensity was determined on a VAS before and after the intervention. The patients' self-sufficiency was assessed using the Barthel index. Patients were asked about any complications and their level of satisfaction. Costs incurred for carrying out the procedure were compared with the respective reimbursements received.Both procedures were technically fully feasible. No leakages were found in the RFS group, as opposed to 8.1% asymptomatic leakages in the CSP group. The mean value for pain before intervention was 8.8 in the RFS group and 8.7 in the CSP group. On the second postoperative day, there was a significant pain reduction with a value of 2.4 for both groups, which remained more or less constant over the follow-up period. The Barthel index increased significantly from an average of 30 before the intervention to 80 on the fourth postoperative day and 70 after 24 months. No differences were found between the two procedures with regard to pain, improvement in functional status and satisfaction. Taking into account the state-wide base rate used for calculating reimbursement, 3,834.75 € remained for RFS and 5,084.32 € for CSP.RFS and CSP are minimally invasive procedures that achieve equally good and sustained pain reduction, leading to markedly improved self-sufficiency of the patients. With regard to possible cement leakages, RFS is the safer method. A profit can be generated with both techniques.Ziel dieser Studie war eine Vergleichsanalyse der Zementaugmentation mittels Radiofrequenzsakroplastie (RFS) und Zementsakroplastie (ZSP) hinsichtlich Outcome und Wirtschaftlichkeit.Bei 100 Patienten mit insgesamt 168 nicht dislozierten Insuffizienzfrakturen erfolgte eine CT-gesteuerte Zementaugmentation, jeweils 50 Patienten wurden mittels RFS oder ZSP behandelt. Leckagen wurden mittels CT detektiert. Die Schmerzintensität wurde prä- und postinterventionell mittels visueller Analogskala (VAS) bestimmt. Die Beurteilung der Selbstständigkeit der Patienten erfolgte mit dem Barthel-Index. Komplikationen und die Patientenzufriedenheit wurden erfragt. Die anfälligen Verfahrenskosten wurden den jeweiligen Erlösen gegenübergestellt.Beide Verfahren waren technisch gut durchführbar. Eine Leckage fand sich in der RFS-Gruppe nicht, in der ZSP-Gruppe fanden sich 8,1% asymptomatische Leckagen. Der Mittelwert für Schmerzen lag vor Intervention bei 8,8 in der RFS- und 8,7 in der ZSP-Gruppe. Am 2. postoperativen Tag zeigte sich eine signifikante Schmerzreduktion mit einem Wert von 2,4 für beide Gruppen, die im Nachuntersuchungszeitraum weitestgehend konstant war. Der Barthel-Index stieg signifikant von durchschnittlich 30 vor der Intervention auf 80 am 4. postoperativen Tag und 70 nach 24 Monaten. Hinsichtlich Schmerzen, Verbesserung des funktionellen Status und Zufriedenheit fanden sich für beide Verfahren keine Unterschiede. Unter Berücksichtigung des Landesbasisfallwertes verblieben 3834,75 € für die RFS und 5084,32 € für die ZSP.Die RFS und ZSP sind minimalinvasive Verfahren, die eine gleich gute und nachhaltige Schmerzreduktion ermöglichen, eine deutlich verbesserte Selbstständigkeit der Patienten ist die Folge. Hinsichtlich möglicher Zementleckagen ist die RFS das sicherere Verfahren. Mit jeder Technik lässt sich ein Gewinn erwirtschaften.

Zirconia crowns combine the advantages of metal restorations, such as minimally invasive tooth preparation and ease of cementation, with those of full ceramic crowns, such as low thermal conductivity and tooth color. With the introduction of a high-speed sintering procedure, it is possible to produce and cement zirconia crowns and small monolithic bridges in a Cerec Single Visit procedure. This new procedure is compared to established chairside methods.

Until now, the ability to fabricate definitive Cerec bridges for the posterior region was less a question of the capabilities of the Cerec software than the availability of ceramic materials with sufficient strength for these indications. With the launch of the somewhat translucent inCoris TZI zirconia, Sirona has made possible the computer-assisted design and computer- assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM) of monolithic bridges using Cerec dental software. In this article, the possibilities and limitations of inCoris TZI, as well as inCoris TZI C (a recently introduced further development from Sirona), will be demonstrated, based on two clinical cases.

The economization of inpatient care began when lump sum reimbursement was introduced into the hospital sector. Since then, total hip arthroplasty (THA) has experienced a rapid development in terms of annual procedures and the optimization of the clinical pathway. Therefore, it is obvious to highlight THA as one of the most common procedures in the German health care system. In this work, the two most common techniques for the fixation of THA are investigated with regard to their cost structure and their influence on the clinical result.In Germany, uncemented and hybrid fixation are used for THA. In this study we investigated the differences in material costs, the duration of surgery, and the length of stay.For each fixation technique a retrospective cost analysis was carried out, based on the data from the treatment documentation of the University Hospital for Orthopedics, Rostock (OUK). The mean values of the parameters and expenses have been reviewed with descriptive statistics for differences.With regard to total costs and the contribution margin there was no statistically significant difference.Although there are differences in individual cost areas, in total costs, cost advantages and disadvantages cancel each other out. Thus, from an economic perspective no particular technique can be recommended.

In esthetic rehabilitation, it is a challenge to meet the needs of patients with growing expectations. Creating predictable results is the key to success. This can be accomplished by performing a comprehensive esthetic diagnosis, elaborating treatment proposals that satisfy today's esthetic standards, and using modern computer-assisted methods. The diagnostic wax-up and mock-up are effective tools that allow patients to visualize treatment proposals without invasive procedures. Once the patient has approved the proposals, they provide the basis for the fabrication of the final restoration. The use of modern ceramic materials makes it possible to achieve a good esthetic outcome, even in restorations with extremely thin layer thicknesses. Esthetic cementation is the final step of restorative treatment.

Conventional uncemented femoral stems provide good long-term fixation in patients with a wide range of clinical function. However, preservation of bone stock, and minimally invasive approaches have led to exploration into various other implant designs. Short-stem prosthesis focusing on a stable metaphyseal fit have emerged to address these challenges in total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of a newly developed short-stem hip prosthesis AIDA® in context of a single surgeon study.From February 2009 to December 2013, 72 cementless "AIDA® short stems" (Fa. Implantcast) were implanted by a single surgeon in one study centre via the Watson Jones interval. All patients signed informed consent prior to screening and the study design was approved by the local ethics committee. 51 patients with 52 implants (35 female, 36 male) with a follow-up 24 months were included in this prospective, controlled clinical trial. The patients were pre- and postoperatively examined clinically and radiological by a specified protocol.The average patient age at the time of THA was 61 ± 3.2 years (min.-max. 46-68 years). At the last follow-up, the average Harris Hip score increased from 41.4 ± 4.5 preoperatively to 96.8 ± 3.2 points postoperatively. The hospital stay was 9.1 days on average. The X-rays showed in all cases a stable fixation of the stems with full bony integration and no signs of loosening or migration. There were no specific complications relating to the less invasive approach. Postoperatively one periprosthetic fracture was evident. The revision operation into a cementless stem was done without any complications (revisions rate 1.9 %).The newly developed "AIDA short stem" is a promising hip implant for the young and active patient with osteoarthritis of the hip. The short-term results are encouraging, but nevertheless mid- and long-term results must be further observed on a prospective basis as part of this collective study.

For fixation of total hip prostheses, cemented and cement-free techniques are available. Normally, anchoring techniques and the definitive endoprosthesis model are determined preoperatively based on the available information, such as the quality of bone. Some newer endoprosthesis models utilize the same instruments for both implantation techniques. In this way it is possible to decide on the final anchoring technique intraoperatively. Because such a combined endoprosthesis system has been used in our clinic for 10 years, we were interested in the clinical results at the intermediate stage.In a prospective, non-randomized study 105 pairs from a continuing series were formed from 105 cases treated with cement-free prostheses and the latest cemented shaft implants from the same year. In this way a total of 210 hip shaft endoprostheses from the years 2002 to 2006 were included in the study. After an average time period of 6.3 years (range 4.5-8.2 years) the patients were recalled for a follow-up examination. The clinical results, early and late complications were analyzed. The immediately postoperative X-ray images and those from the follow-up examination were evaluated by an independent external expert with respect to primary positioning, migration and any signs of loosening.At the follow-up examination at an average of 6.3 years the quota was 73%. The indications for cement-free/cemented total hip endoprosthesis were: primary arthritis 87%/98%, secondary arthritis 10%/2% and others 3%/0%. At the time of the last follow-up examination 4 and 14 patients, respectively, had died. The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain was given as 0.72/0.78. The Harris hip score improved from 54/48 to 93/90 points. The implant-related survival rate was 99.5%. Due to a periprosthetic fracture one of the cemented shafts had to be removed. Luxation occurred in 3/2 cases, respectively, of which 4 could be conservatively treated. In one cement-free case a head elongation and a change to an inlay with an anti-luxation shoulder was necessary. A fracture of the trochanter major was conservatively treated and an intraoperative shaft fissure was stabilized with wire cerclage and titan banding. The radiological evaluation showed no implant loosening or statistically significant differences in the shaft positioning.Short and intermediate clinical and radiological results showed no differences in patients of similar average age in the sixth decade of life. The significant improvements in the Harris hip score and the range of movement could be confirmed in the intermediate term and are comparable to other current implants. It can be concluded that an intraoperative decision on the fixation technique based on the macroscopically visible bone quality supports the reliably good results of both methods.

With the Cerec 4.2 software version, implant abutments and crowns can be fabricated using an impressionless technique. The intraoral optical impression is taken using ScanPosts. The custom-made abutments are connected with an adhesive titanium base and can therefore be secured with high torques without tensile stress.

The aim of the study was to determine the retentive strength of monolithic all-ceramic crowns cemented on titanium implant abutments. 225 crowns (75 crowns each of Mark II, Empress CAD, and e.max CAD) were milled using a CAD/ CAM system. The crowns were cemented onto sandblasted titanium implant abutments using five luting agents (Multilink Implant, Variolink II, RelyX Unicem, Fujicem, and Panavia 2.0). After thermocycling, the crowns were removed using a universal testing machine. The location of luting agent residue on the abutment and inner crown surfaces was evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA with the Bonferroni correction. In comparing the luting agents, no significant difference was found between Vita Mark II and Empress CAD. For e.max CAD, the luting agent RelyX Unicem had a significantly higher mean retentive strength than did Multilink Implant (p = 0.003) or Panavia 2.0 (p = 0.001). In comparing the ceramic materials, e.max CAD showed significantly higher pull-off strengths than the other two ceramic materials when the luting agents RelyX Unicem and Fujicem were used (all p0.001). The residues of nearly all luting agents were located entirely or almost entirely (75%-100%) on the inner crown surfaces of all ceramic materials, except for the luting agent GC Fujicem, which left more luting agent residue (0%-75%) on the abutment surfaces of all ceramic materials. In comparing the five luting agents, significant differences in the resulting retentive strength were only found for the ceramic material e.max CAD. The other ceramic materials did not show significant differences in retentive strength, independent of the luting agent.

Primary and long-term fixation of cementless metaphyseal implants in knee revision arthroplasty cases with large bone defects.All tibial and femoral bone defects AORI grade 2 and 3.Cases where stable uncemented fixation of the metaphyseal implant is not possible.Pre-operative evaluation of the failure mode and implant fixation planning. After opening the joint, a synovectomy and mobilisation of medial and lateral recesses routinely performed. Testing of ligamentous stability and implant fixation undertaken before explantation. Removal of the bearing, femoral and tibial components with osteotomes or oscillating saw. Tibial diaphysis prepared with reamers, and metaphyseal preparation with broaches and stem extension. Placement of the metaphyseal broach for height with respect to the tibial joint line and rotational stability assessed. Tibial tray size and position determined before implanting the sleeve, stem and tray trial. The tibial trial provides a stable platform for analysis of the extension and flexion gaps with spacer blocks. Diaphyseal reamers used to identify the anterior femoral bow. Metaphyseal broaches used to achieve stable fixation up to the resection line marked on the handle. Distal femoral freshening cut in 5° or 7° of valgus made to accommodate distal augments as needed. Positioning of the 4-in-1 block with reconstruction of the posterior off-set and cutting for posterior augmentation. Selection of a box cut corresponding to the amount of constraint needed. Trial insert with appropriate, stem, sleeve, condylar femur and augments introduced. Bearing size, joint stability and ROM assessed. Patella alignment and the need for patella replacement or revision determined. The definitive implants are cemented at the joint surface, with metaphyseal sleeves and diaphyseal stems are uncemented.Full weight bearing as tolerated, physiotherapy, lymph drainage and pain therapy are routine with no specific post-operative management required.Between 2007 and 2011, 193 sleeves (119 tibial/74 femoral) were implanted in 121 aspetic knee revision arthroplasties. After average of 3.6 years they were analysed clinically and radiographically. The AKSS (American Knee Society Score) increased from 88 ± 18 to 147 ± 23 points (p 0.01). ROM (range of motion) increased from 89 ± 6° to 114 ± 4°. Overall revision rate was 11.6 %. Only 4 sleeves revised for aseptic loosening (2 % of total sleeves). An additional 10 revisions performed mainly for infection (3.3 %) or ligament instability (3.3 %).

Biological augmentation and stabilization of high-grade bone defects with structural allografts from donor femur halfs.Severe bone defects with aseptic loosening of hip prosthesis, periprosthetic femoral fracture or non-union, possibly even in cases of a healed infection.Local or systemic infection.The two modeled strut allografts are temporary fixed epiperiostal anterolateral and -medial with wire cerclages, while protecting the vascular supplying linea aspera of the femur. With the thus stabilized femur, the leg can be placed in the four-position in order to prepare the medullary canal of the revision prosthesis. Finally, the uncemented revision prosthesis is hammered in under successive tightening of the wire cerclages. With this "cracking technique", stem is stabilized and the grafts have repositioning, augmentative, and supportive function.Partial weight-bearing postoperatively for 12 weeks. X-ray control during surgery, 10 days postoperatively, after 6 and 12 weeks and every 1-2 years.In four different studies, 123 patients were stabilized from December 1991 to June 2011 due to an extensive periprosthetic femoral bone defect and/or periprosthetic fracture, refracture, or non-union with strut allografts. After an average follow-up of 3.8 years (range 0.3-11 years), the average Harris Hip Score was 80.8 (range 44-100). During this time, there was 1 refracture, 103 stable stems, 20 fibrous stable stems, 9 patients with low graft resorption, and 122 patients with radiographic healing of the strut allografts based on classification according to Emerson et al. (Clin Orthop Relat Res 285:35-44, 1992).

Restore primary center of rotation and reconstruct extensive bone defects in hip revision surgery with a modular off-label implant combined with antiprotrusion cage and metal augment, thus, achieving improved hip function.Large segmental acetabular defects with nonsupportive columns (Paprosky type 3a and 3b) in cup loosening or Girdlestone situation. In case of pelvic discontinuity posterior column-plating is possible.Persisting hip infection and severe systemic disorders impairing achievement of secondary stability through bony integration of metal augment.Posterolateral (if dorsal column plating) or other approach. Remove loose implant and granulation tissue with sufficient exposure of bleeding bone. Size acetabular defect with trial components of augment and appropriate antiprotrusio cage. Fixation of selected metal augment with screws. Fill additional acetabular defects with morsellized bone graft. Open a slot into the ischium to fix the distal flange of the cage. If necessary, bend both flanges according to patient's anatomy. Enter the ischium with distal flange and gradual impaction of the antiprotrusio ring. Final stabilization of the ring with several screws aiming at the posterior column or the acetabular dome. Inject cement between ring and augment to stabilize the construction and avoid metal wear. Final cement fixation of a polyethylene liner or a dual-mobility cup into the antiprotrusio ring. In pelvic discontinuity with major instability osteosynthesis of the dorsal column can be performed prior to cementation.Prophylaxis of periprosthetic infection, DVT and heterotopic ossification. Physical therapy with partial weight bearing (20 kp) for 6 weeks; in discontinuity initial wheel chair mobilization.Since 2008, 72 off-label implantations of a combined antiprotrusio cage and a Trabecular Metal™ Augment were performed. A total of 44 patients (46 operations) were investigated at 38.8 (36-51) months postoperatively. In all, 36 patients had a bone defect according to Paprosky type 3a/b and in 3/4 patients with pelvic discontinuity additional osteosynthesis was performed. The WOMAC score increased from 39.8 (8.7-75) points preoperatively to 57.9 (16.7-97.9) points at follow-up. Migration or failure of implant components was not observed. In 11 % of dislocations and 11 % periprosthetic infections surgical revision was necessary.

Management of acetabular bone defects Paprosky types IIa and IIb in revision hip arthroplasty by rebuilding the bone stock using impaction bone grafting, primary stable reconstruction with an acetabular reconstruction ring, and restoring the hip center of rotation to its anatomical position.Acetabular segmental or combined structural defects in the superior acetabular dome with superior/lateral hip center migration with intact anterior and posterior columns (Paprosky types IIa, IIb).Acute or chronic infections, severe acetabular bone defects preventing adequate anchorage of the prosthesis-particularly destruction of the posterior column.Modified transgluteal, lateral approach to the hip joint. Removal of the loose acetabular component. Complete circumferential exposure of the acetabular rim, while maintaining mechanical stability of the remaining bone. Preparation of the homologous spongiosa chips and reconstruction of the acetabular defect in impaction grafting technique. Implantation of the acetabular reconstruction ring and primary stable fixation with cancellous screws in the acetabular dome. Cemented fixation of a polyethylene inlay.Mobilization on 2 underarm crutches from postoperative day 1. Partial weight bearing with 20 kg for 6 weeks postoperatively. If plain radiographs show unchanged seating of the prosthesis after 6 weeks, loading can be increased by 10 kg/week until full weight bearing is achieved; thrombosis prophylaxis is continued throughout. Limitation of hip flexion to 90° during the first 6 weeks, and no adduction and forced external rotation to avoid dislocation. Avoidance of sports involving jumping and axial impact loading for 12 months. Radiologic checkups after 3, 6, and 12 months and, thereafter, every 2 years.Analysis between 2008 and 2011 involved 22 consecutive patients with a total of 23 prostheses; the mean follow-up was 38 ± 11 months. Compared to the preoperative evaluation, follow-up yielded a significant improvement in the average Harris Hip Score (82.2 ± 8.7 vs. 44.7 ± 10.7) and the Merle d'Aubigné Score (14.6 ± 1.9 vs. 7.5 ± 1.3). Radiological solid osseointegration of the cup was observed in 21 cases; partial radiolucent lines were seen in 2 cases (9 %) in the zones I-III delineated by DeLee and Charnley. In 21 cases (91 %) radiographs confirmed no measurable migration or displacement of the acetabular component and the bone graft was determined to be incorporated on the basis of osseous consolidation within the grafted area in 20 cases (87 %). During follow-up 3 prosthesis (13 %) required revision.

The trend in arthroplasty of the hip joint to implement new models is partly based on theoretical considerations. In order to verify to which extent the philosophy of individual models is ultimately successful, the presentation of long-term results is required. In the years 1991 and 1992, 433 patients with primary implantation of an uncemented total hip replacement in primary coxarthrosis with a stem type AML (anatomic medullary locking) were treated surgically. 283 of them got a cementless cup type Duraloc. In 311 (71.8 %) patients the mean survival rate of the prosthesis could be determined at a mean follow-up of 15.5 years. 145 (33.5 %) patients were followed up completely both clinically and radiologically. Radiographically, the stem position, changes of the periprosthetic bone of the stem and the cup, as well as the wear of the cups were examined. The cumulative survival rate of the AML stem after 15.5 years was 97.5 %, of the Duraloc cup 88.2 %. The clinical results of the hip scores according to Harris and Merle d'Aubigné were good and excellent and patient satisfaction was very high. There was no relationship between stem position, stress shielding and surrounding lyses at the femur and the acetabulum and survival of stem or cup. There was no correlation between inlay wear and survival of the Duraloc cup. A subsiding of the stem in 2 cases had no effect on the clinical symptoms and quality of life. The press-fit implanted AML stem and the Duraloc cup revealed very good results during the investigation period. Like other implants, the survival rate is limited at the presented implant mainly by the cup.

Cementless total hip arthroplasty with preservation of femoral neck and natural load transmission. Restoration of joint function and alleviation of pain.Osteoarthritis of the hip or femoral head necrosis in younger patients.Patients biologically 65 years. Destructed or discontinued femoral neck. Pathologic hip formation: short femoral neck, severe enhanced or reduced CCD angle. Body mass index (BMI) 30 (relative contraindication). Manifest osteoporosis. Necessity of immediate full weight bearing. Heavy smoking (relative contraindication). Ongoing chemotherapy.Anterolateral approach to the hip joint. Exposition of the femoral neck and resection of the femoral head at its lateral margin. Preparation of the acetabulum and insertion of a common acetabular component. Positioning of the center pin into the femoral neck. Face milling of the femoral neck butt. Preparation of the femoral neck with the Spiron drill bit. Insertion of the Spiron prosthesis. Trial reduction with a trial head. Substitution by the definitive head (cone 12/14 mm). Wound closure.Low centred X-ray of the pelvis and cross table view of the hip joint. Physiotherapy and partial weight bearing for 6 weeks. Prevention of deep vein thrombosis until achievement of full weight bearing.A total of 28 Spiron prosthesis were implanted in 26 patients (15 men, 11 women, mean age 51 years [range 34-64 years], mean BMI 28 kg/m(2) [range 21-39 kg/m(2)]) from August 2009 to January 2012. Diagnoses: 13 cases of primary osteoarthritis, 8 cases of secondary osteoarthritis, 5 cases of femoral head necrosis, and 2 cases of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The mean surgery length was 93 min (range 70-121 min), the mean hospital stay was 9 days (range 6-16 days). Blood transfusion was not necessary in any of the cases. There were no immediate complications such as deep vein thrombosis, surgery requiring secondary bleeding, wound infection, nerve palsy, or dislocation of the hip. Postoperative radiologic examinations showed an average leg lengthening of 3 mm (range -10-19 mm). No varus deviation of the prosthesis was observed. The Harris Hip Score improved from 55.4 points (range 33.5-76.9 points) preoperative to 90.5 points (range 75.7-99.9 points) 3 months postoperative. In 1 case with aseptic loosening, replacement surgery was performed without complications.

Background and purpose Improvement of positioning and alignment by the use of computer-assisted surgery (CAS) might improve longevity and function in total knee replacements, but there is little evidence. In this study, we evaluated the short-term results of computer-navigated knee replacements based on data from the Norwegian Arthroplasty Register. Patients and methods Primary total knee replacements without patella resurfacing, reported to the Norwegian Arthroplasty Register during the years 2005–2008, were evaluated. The 5 most common implants and the 3 most common navigation systems were selected. Cemented, uncemented, and hybrid knees were included. With the risk of revision for any cause as the primary endpoint and intraoperative complications and operating time as secondary outcomes, 1,465 computer-navigated knee replacements (CAS) and 8,214 conventionally operated knee replacements (CON) were compared. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis with adjustment for age, sex, prosthesis brand, fixation method, previous knee surgery, preoperative diagnosis, and ASA category were used. Results Kaplan-Meier estimated survival at 2 years was 98% (95% CI: 97.5–98.3) in the CON group and 96% (95% CI: 95.0–97.8) in the CAS group. The adjusted Cox regression analysis showed a higher risk of revision in the CAS group (RR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1–2.5; p = 0.02). The LCS Complete knee had a higher risk of revision with CAS than with CON (RR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.3–3.4; p = 0.004)). The differences were not statistically significant for the other prosthesis brands. Mean operating time was 15 min longer in the CAS group. Interpretation With the introduction of computer-navigated knee replacement surgery in Norway, the short-term risk of revision has increased for computer-navigated replacement with the LCS Complete. The mechanisms of failure of these implantations should be explored in greater depth, and in this study we have not been able to draw conclusions regarding causation.

The anchorage of pedicle screws can be challenging in the osteoporotic spine. A promising technique are cement augumented pedicle screws. The goal of this study was to gain more information regarding application of pedicle screw augmentation in Germany.Participants of the National German Spine Congress 2009 were invited to participate in an internet-based anonymous survey regarding application of pedicle screw augmentation. The questionnaire was related to different aspects of materials and procedures for pedicle screw augmentation. The frequency of answers was divided according to the specialty state of the surgeons: orthopaedic and trauma surgeons vs. neurosurgeons. The Mantel-Haenszel test was applied to evaluate the differences between the groups.69 (64 %) orthopaedic and trauma surgeons and 39 (36 %) neurosurgeons participated (n = 108). Nearly 80 % of the participants use cement-augmented pedicle screws in their daily practice. Almost 2/3 of the specialists apply cannulated screws or other special screws. The Expedium (Company) screws are particularly preferred. The insertion of screws is combined with kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty in 20 % of the cases. The balloon kyphoplasty was applied most commonly. There was no statistical difference between the surgeon groups regarding the different techniques. The main indications for pedicle screw augmentation were osteoporosis, intraoperative findings as well as loosening of screws, and revision. The most frequently observed complication is cement extravasation into the spinal canal (28 %). The cost issue is considered as being important but unknown to most of the participants. It can be assumed that the use of pedicle screws in Germany is well established in spine surgery, without as yet a standard technique being established.

The results of a national survey from 1998 showed that only around 10 % of orthopaedic surgeons in Germany had strictly implemented modern third-generation cementing techniques in total hip arthroplasty (THA). A 2005 update showed an improvement up to 29.4 %. The study was repeated in 2010 in order to evaluate the current situation and to determine whether modern cementing techniques have become more popular.A detailed, slightly modified questionnaire regarding cement and bone preparation, cementing techniques on acetabulum and femur, and implant types was sent to 492 German orthopaedic and trauma hospitals, as well as to visiting surgeons with an interest in THA. The survey was conducted over 6 months. The response rate was 51.8 %, 255 questionnaires were available for evaluation and statistical analysis.Palacos R+G bone cement remained the most widely used cement (52.2 %). The mixing times given varied significantly. Vacuum mixing systems have again become more popular (85.2 %). In the femur 78.6 % of the surgeons attempted to preserve cancellous bone and 77.8 % used pulsatile (jet) lavage. Retrograde cement application via a cement gun was done in 85.8 %. Cement restrictors were used in more than 98 %. Only 72.7 % of the surgeons implemented sustained cement pressurisation and preferred a cement mantle thickness over 2 mm (55.2 %). Only 18.1 % drilled multiple small acetabular keyholes and 66.5 % used jet lavage. In 67.9 % no cement gun was used and in 70.7 % the cement was applied at high viscosity. Cement pressurisation was done manually in 89.1 %. The Müller straight stem device remained the most popular implant. Only 7.4 % of the centres implanted less than 20 and 40.3 % more than 100 cemented stems per year, whereby higher THA volumes correlated with better cementing technique.The results of this survey demonstrate that, in comparison to 2005, the current state of cemented THA, in particular cementing technique has generally significantly improved. Future emphasis should focus on continued surgeon education and training, as the cementing techniques are of utmost importance for long-term durability.

To evaluate the influence of two different tooth preparation forms, two luting space settings and two cement types on the marginal and internal adaptation of all-ceramic crown copings produced using Cerec3 CAD/CAM system.Forty working stone dies were made from two metal master casts (1. Tooth 36: with anatomic occlusal reduction, 2. Tooth 36: with flat occlusal reduction). Forty crown copings were milled using Vita In-Ceram 2000 YZ: 20 with an luting space settings of 0 = 100 microm and 20 with -50 = 50 microm. Copings were cemented using two cements (zinc phosphate cement, P21: Panavia21), then embedded and sectioned bucco-lingually and mesio-distally. Widths of marginal and internal gaps were measured using a light microscope at magnification of 40X. Data were submitted to one-way ANOVA, and statistical significance was set at p0.05.Copings with flat occlusal reduction and luting space settings of 100 pm had a better internal and marginal fit compared with copings with anatomic occlusal reduction and luting space settings of 50 microm, regardless of the cement used. P21 showed a significantly better fit compared with zinc phosphate cement.The presented Cerec3 CAD/CAM system can provide a marginal and internal adaptation which is comparable to that of conventional cast and conventional all-ceramic crowns.

The aim of this prospective clinical study was to assess the long-term clinical survival rate and the technical and biological complication rates of zirconia-based posterior FDPs.Forty-five patients in need of one or more posterior FDPs received 57 three- to five-unit zirconia-based FDPs. The frameworks were fabricated by means of a prototype computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) system (direct ceramic machining, DCM), first processing zirconia in the white stage. The frameworks were veneered with a prototype veneering ceramic.The FDPs were adhesively placed. At baseline, 6 months, and 1,2, 3, 5, 8 and 10 years of function, the FDPs were examined for technical and/or biological complications. Furthermore, the periodontal health of the abutment teeth (test) and untreated control teeth was analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed applying descriptive statistics, Kaplan-Meier survival and multiple mixed effects regression tests.Twenty-one patients with 26 FDPs were examined at a mean observation time of 10.7 +/- 1.3 years. A total of 16 FDPs were lost to follow-up. Fifteen FDPs had to be replaced due to technical/biological complications; hence, the 10-year survival rate of the FDPs was 67%. Three framework fractures occurred, resulting in a 10-year survival rate for the zirconia frameworks of 91.5%. Chipping/fracture of the veneering ceramic was detected in 16 FDPs over 10 years (complication rate 32%). A significant correlation of the span of the FDPs and the incidence of chipping was observed: 4- and 5-unit FDPs had a 4.9 times higher probability for chipping than 3-unit FDPs. Marginal discrepancy/degradation was found in 90.7% of the FDPs over 10 years. At 11 of the FDPs (complication rate 27%), secondary caries occurred. No difference of the periodontal health was found around test and control teeth.The zirconia frameworks exhibited very good long-term stability. However, the zirconia-based FDPs frequently exhibited problems such as marginal deficiency or chipping of the veneering ceramic. Both problems may be associated with the prototype status of the system.

CoCrMo alloys are contraindicated for allergy patients. For these patients, cemented or uncemented prostheses made of titanium alloy are indicated. Uncemented prostheses, however, have low primary retention, particularly the tibial components of knee joint prostheses because of the lack of a positive locking. Therefore, for knee replacement cemented CoCrMo prostheses may be suitable also for allergy sufferers if these are masked by ZrN or TiNbN layers. Alternatively the CoCrMo alloy may be replaced by high-strength oxide ceramics. For adhesion of bone cement to the ceramic surface, however, only inefficient mechanical retention spots are exposed as compared with a metal surface. Undercuts generated by corundum blasting, although highly efficient on a CoCrMo surface, are not such efficient centres on a ceramic surface due to its brittleness. Therefore, the mechanical component of retention is significantly reduced. When specific adhesion between bone cement and surface does not exist due to physical and chemical forces, the hydrolytic stability will be insufficient. Micromotions are promoted and early aseptic loosening is predictable. Silicoating of the ceramic surface will allow specific adhesion and can result in better hydrolytic stability of bonding.In order to evaluate the effectiveness of silicoating the bond strengths of blasted (mean size of corundum grains 50 µm) and silicate layered alumina-toughened zirconia (ATZ) surfaces were compared with "as fired" surfaces by utilising TiAlV probes (diameter 6 mm) for traction-adhesive strength testing. Samples machined out of CoCrMo alloy were utilised for reference. After preparing the samples for traction-adhesive strength testing (sequence: substrate, silicate and silane, protective lacquer [PolyMA], bone cement, TiAlV probe) they were aged up to 360 days at 37 °C in Ringer's solution.The bond strengths observed for all ageing intervals were well above 20 MPa and much higher and more hydrolytically stable for blasted and silicate-layered compared with "as fired" ATZ samples.Silicoating may be effective for achieving a high initial bond strength of bone cement on surfaces of oxide ceramics and also suitable to stabilise bond strength under hydrolytic conditions as present in the human body. Activation by low grain size corundum (mean grain size 50 µm) seems to be effective for activation without deteriorating the bending strength of the ceramics investigated. Due to the proposed layer system migration, micromotions and debonding should be widely reduced or even eliminated.

A stable osseointegration of an alumina-matrix-composite-ceramic (AMC) could facilitate the use of a thin-walled monoblock acetabular cup for hip arthroplasty with large ball-heads providing advantages like reduced risk of dislocation. The aim of the pilot study was to examine the osseointegration of porous-coated alumina-matrix-composite-ceramic-monoblock cups after implantation in a sheep model.The porous coated AMC-ceramic cups were taken out after a healing period of 8 and 52 weeks after unilateral implantation in 5 and 6 sheep, respectively. The osseointegration was analysed histomorphologically and histomorphometrically by representative serial sections after dying according to Masson-Goldner. The examination was stratified according the pole and the rim areas as a press-fit cup with an extended rim was used. Two animals had a hip dislocation after 8 weeks and these animals were excluded from the study and replaced.The cups were appraised as stable in the bony bed. Histologically, the rim area of the acetabular cup showed a higher osseointegration rate than the pole area. The rate of osseointegration in total was 3% after 8 weeks and 7% after 52 weeks. The rim area furnished 5.1% after 8 and 8.6% after 52 weeks. At the pole the osseointegration was 1,2% after 8 and 5.5% after 52 weeks. No significant differences were seen between both assessed time periods regarding the osseointegration rates. The bone showed an interlocking aspect with the pores of the coating as bony tissue was determined in the pores.The presented pilot study revealed a stable osseointegration of porous-coated AMC-ceramic monoblock cups one year after surgery in a weight-bearing animal model. Interlocking of bone and porous coating may provide a stable osseointegration in the presence of low osseointegration rates, whose enhancement seems to be preferable.

The success of all-ceramic crowns and increased patient demand for metal-free, tooth-colored restorations has led to the development of many different restorative systems for all-ceramic fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). The most recent core materials for all-ceramic FDPs are the yttrium-tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP)-based materials. Yttrium oxide is a stabilizing oxide added to pure zirconia to stabilize it at room temperature and to generate a multiphase material known as partially stabilized zirconia. This exhibits very high flexural strength and fracture toughness along with good biocompatibility and excellent esthetics. This clinical report describes the use of the Lava All-ceramic system, based on Y-TZP, for the fabrication of two fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) in the maxillary anterior region of the patient, restoring both esthetics and function.

The objective of this study is to establish the medium-term and long-term clinical and radiological results with the cementless Vektor-Titan stem. Special consideration has been given to evaluate the extent to which the implant design achieves proximal stress transfer, thus avoiding stress shielding in the proximal femur.From October 10, 1996, to May 18, 2000, 432 Vektor-Titan stems were implanted in 348 patients in the Wichernhaus Orthopaedic Clinic at Rummelsberg Hospital. The results were evaluated clinically and radiologically within the scope of a retrospective cohort study. The Vektor stem is a titanium straight stem designed for cementless fixation. It has a high proximal volume in the form of a three-dimensional taper with longitudinal ribs. This design achieves strong primary fixation in the proximal metaphysis.The survival probability of the stem was 99.08 % after a mean time of 7.5 years after surgery. One implant had to be replaced due to a traumatic periprosthetic fracture. Another had to be replaced after 9 months due to septic loosening, and a third after 14 months due to a suspected low-grade infection which, however, was not confirmed intraoperatively. The fourth stem required replacement after 75 months, again due to a periprosthetic fracture. Based on the Merle d'Aubigné score , surgery led to very good clinical results in 254 cases (58.8 %) and to good improvement in 130 cases (30.1 %). In 33 cases (7.6 %) there was a moderate improvement in the score, and in 15 cases (3.5 %) there was no improvement. Bone structure was radiologically normal in 421 cases (97.5 % of all cases). No signs of atrophy were found in the proximal femur and the trochanters. On the contrary, there was evidence of an even denser bone structure at the level of the osteotomy and the lateral implant fixation within the greater trochanter. There the trabeculae were visibly aligned towards the surface of the implant, indicative of direct biological fixation at the bone-implant interface. These findings remained unchanged over long observation periods. There were no changes along the diaphyseal stem.Medium-term and long-term results with the cementless Vektor-Titan stem show a low rate of implant loosening with stable metaphyseal fixation and preservation of bone structure in the proximal femur and the absence of changes along the diaphyseal stem.

The optimal treatment strategy for unstable trochanteric fractures in the elderly is still controversial because of the frequent failure of osteosynthesis.A cohort of patients with unstable trochanteric fractures who were treated with cemented hemiarthroplasty and presented in our department during the period 2003-2009 was analyzed. Complications, reoperations, walking ability and full weight bearing were documented.A total of 91 patients were included (mean age 87.7±6.8 years) and predominantly 31A2 fractures (89%) were treated. There were 3.3% reoperations in the cohort and the 30 day mortality was 5.5%. At least 1 general complication occurred in over 50% of the patients. However, 30% of the patients had lower urinary tract infections, disturbances of electrolyte balance or transitory psychotic symptoms. On average full weight bearing could be performed at 3.5 (±3) days after the operation.Cemented hemiarthroplasty is a safe treatment strategy for unstable trochanteric fractures in the elderly, which allows early full weight bearing. Because of frequent general complications, more interdisciplinary units and centres of excellence are needed to handle this challenging cohort.

The dorsal approach to the elbow joint is commonly used for arthroplasty of the joint and consists of different steps. The superficial approach including the incision of the skin and the preparation of subcutaneous tissue precedes the deep approach. The latter contains preparation and transposition of the ulnar nerve, relief of extensors and ligaments radiating into the articular capsule. Concerning the preparation of the extensors three important techniques are differentiated, triceps splitting, triceps reflecting and triceps preserving.

The purpose of total hip replacement (THR) is the restoration of a painless functioning hip joint with the main focus on the biomechanical properties. Advances in surgical techniques and biomaterial properties currently allow predictable surgical results in most patients. Despite the overwhelming success of this surgical procedure, the debate continues surrounding the optimal choice of implants and fixation. Femoral and acetabular implants with varying geometries and fixation methods are currently available. Problems inherent with acrylic bone cement, however, have encouraged surgeons to use alternative surfaces to allow biologic fixation. Optimal primary and secondary fixation of cementless hip stems is a precondition for long-term stability. Important criteria to achieve primary stability are good rotational and axial stability by press-fit fixation. The objective of the cementless secondary fixation is the biological integration of the implant by bony ingrowth. Nevertheless, current investigations show excellent results of cementless fixation even in older patients with reduced osseous quality. The main advantages of cementless fixation include biological integration, reduced duration of surgery, no tissue damage by cement polymerization and reduction of intraoperative embolisms. In comparison to cemented THR both, cementless sockets and stems provide good long-term results.

Only a few reports in the literature describe that total shoulder replacement provides better functional results in dislocation arthropathy than hemiarthroplasty. Nevertheless, the risk of aseptic loosening in young and active patients is high after long-term follow-up. We evaluated the results of cementless humeral head resurfacing in this group.We evaluated 29 patients with dislocation arthropathy who had been followed up for a mean of 39 months. The mean age at the time of operation was 43.7±14.7 years. Preoperatively, cuff deficiency was seen in 11 cases.The mean adjusted Constant score improved from 16.8±15.2% to 78.1±21.9%. Negative prognostic factors turned out to be female sex, age, cuff tears especially of the subscapularis tendon, and previous bone block procedures. Revision was performed in five patients, and two developed painful glenoid erosion which required conversion to total shoulder arthroplasty.Cementless humeral head replacement is a viable option in the treatment of dislocation arthropathy. Revision can be performed easily since the bone stock has been preserved. On the basis of our data, humeral head replacement in patients40 years with dislocation arthropathy offers promising short- to midterm results with an acceptable complication rate.