Isolated acetabular polyethylene exchange through the anterolateral approach.

Isolated exchange of an acetabular liner, in the presence of a well-fixed acetabular component, has become an established method for the management of polyethylene wear. Various experienced adult-reconstruction surgeons have noted a high incidence of instability following isolated liner exchange. We report the results of isolated liner exchange in 35 patients with polyethylene wear and osteolysis (16 patients) or polyethylene wear and instability (19 patients) with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Isolated liner exchange was performed through an anterolateral approach in all cases. Postoperative dislocation occurred in 2 of the 35 patients (6%), both with polyethylene wear and osteolysis. Isolated liner exchange was successful in addressing instability in all 19 patients who presented with polyethylene wear and dislocation. Isolated acetabular liner exchange performed through an anterolateral approach carries an acceptable dislocation rate.