Accuracy of Positioning and Risk Factors for Malpositioning Custom-Made Femoral Stems in Total Hip Arthroplasty—A Retrospective Multicenter Analysis

Abstract

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is commonly performed using off-the-shelf implants. In the case of a severe mismatch between the anatomy of the proximal femur and the geometry of the stem, the use of custom-made stems might become necessary. The goal of this study was to investigate the precision of the implantation of custom-made stems of one manufacturer (CTX stem, AQ Implants) and to determine risk factors for malpositioning. All patients receiving a custom-made CTX stem between 2014 and 2020 at six high-volume academic centers were retrospectively recruited. The achieved position of the stem, as determined by stem version, stem coronal angle, and implantation depth on radiographs, was compared to the plan. The influence of radiographic and demographic parameters on the position was investigated. The results revealed a high variability of the achieved implant position in relation to the preoperative plan. While the stem coronal angle only differed slightly from the intended position, the stem version and the implantation depth showed a high frequency and amount of deviation. Right stems showed significantly higher positions than planned. Surgeons must be aware of this potential problem when implanting custom-made stems.