Intra-operative error during Austin Moore hemiarthroplasty.

PURPOSE To examine the frequency of technical errors during implantation of the Austin Moore prosthesis in a public hospital. METHODS Radiographs and charts of 147 consecutive uncemented Austin Moore hemiarthoplasty patients were retrospectively reviewed with particular reference to intra-operative errors associated with early failure of the prosthesis. RESULTS 48% of the patients had at least one error pertinent to implantation and 14% sustained intra-operative fractures. The error rates between relatively junior doctors and consultants were not significantly different. CONCLUSION The uncemented Austin Moore prosthesis is a technically demanding prosthesis that is difficult to implant well. Greater selectivity should be exercised when considering its use for femoral neck fractures.