0910 - Reliability of Detecting Stem/cement Interface Radiolucencies in Tha

Introduction: Aseptic loosening of the femoral component continues to be a major long-term complication across a wide range of designs in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Early debonding at the stem/cement interface is emerging as an alarming problem [1] with the roughened surface finishes currently popular in clinical practice. The onset of stem/cement interface radiolucency is commonly regarded as evidence of impending aseptic loosening of femoral components implanted using contemporary cementing technique. However, interpretation of small radiolucencies in the diagnosis of debonding is a subjective matter, with readers’ inherent bias potentially playing a role in judgement. We here report results from a laboratory study undertaken to assess the reliability with which subtle radiolucencies at this interface may be routinely detected.