Complications with the Harris-Galante porous-coated acetabular component after a mean follow-up of 7 years

Material and methods Hundred and twelve hip were studied in 107 patients wi th a mean follow-up of 7 years (range, 6-9 years). Harris and Poster-Merle d'Aubigne clinical hip scores were used. The prosthetic components were eva luated using radiographic criteria. Results The mean Harris score was 91 (range, 34-100). The incidence of prox imal pain was 3,7 p.100 in anterior area and also 3,7 p.100 in posterior ar ea. Radiolucent lines were present in one acetabular zone in 28,5 p.100 of cases, in two zones in 26 p.100, in all three zones in 5,5 p.100. No statis tical significant correlation was identified relating pain and radiolucent lines. The mean rate of linear wear per year was 0,1 millimeter. A statisti cally significant correlation was identified relating a linear wear per yea r above 0,12 millimeter and the presence of radiolucent lines. A major poly ethylene wear (from 2,75 to 3,5 millimeters) was found in 5 cases. One of t hem had an acetabular osteolysis. One acetabular liner was found unstable i n the metal shell during a hip revision for a major wear. Two patients had a dislocation of the liner in the metal-back. Eight hips needed a revision surgery, always for a failure of the polyethylene liner, never for a loosen ing between the socket and the acetabulum. Discussion and conclusion The acetabular component bone fixation of this Ha rris-Galante prosthesis appears optimum. The polyethylene wear and the unst ability between the polyethylene cup and the metal socket need to stop usin g this component. The fixation between his two parts have to be improved.