Bone density study of the proximal femur after hip arthroplasty with porous-coated implants

Progressive loss of bone mineral density around the femora! component of total hip replacement continues to pose a threat to long term prosthetic survival. A linear study was undertaken to measure bone mineral density on a monthly basis following total hip arthroplasty in 11 male patients. The opposite femur was used as the control measurement. Bone mineral density was unchanged at two months following surgery but demonstrated significant decrease as compared to the non-operated side at three months and thereafter. There appears to be a continually progressive reduction in bone mineral density values In most zones up to six months. Initial loss of bone mineral density may reflect a change In vascularity of perlprosthetlc bone with progression to mechanical stress shielding. Further study of this phenomenon utilizing both cemented femoral stems and stems coated with bloactlve ceramic appears to be warranted.