INTRODUCTION: Extensively porous coated segmental replacement prostheses with intramedullary cementless fixation to bone over the whole length of stem often exhibit resorption of the surrounding bone due to stress-shielding. This makes them particularly susceptible to aseptic loosening. STUDY: A finite element analysis of the state of loading of a short-length fixation in a new prosthetic stem design has shown a definite advantage over long-length fixation. The stress pattern within the bone surrounding the prosthesis confirmed that shortening of the ongrowth area in length increases the stress values at the resection level significantly. This stem (Endlock) has been used for diaphyseal anchorage in the treatment of tumors in combination with an artificial joint of proven design in order to reduce stress shielding. RESULTS: No Endlock stem fractures or aseptic loosenings were observed at recent follow-up. The early clinical results comply with the theoretical assumptions. CONCLUSIONS: A short-length fixation system based on intramedullary anchorage of segmental replacement endoprostheses would possibly support physiologic adaptive processes more than fixation over the full length of the stem.
INTRODUCTION: Extensively porous coated segmental replacement prostheses with intramedullary cementless fixation to bone over the whole length of stem often exhibit resorption of the surrounding bone due to stress-shielding. This makes them particularly susceptible to aseptic loosening. STUDY: A finite element analysis of the state of loading of a short-length fixation in a new prosthetic stem design has shown a definite advantage over long-length fixation. The stress pattern within the bone surrounding the prosthesis confirmed that shortening of the ongrowth area in length increases the stress values at the resection level significantly. This stem (Endlock) has been used for diaphyseal anchorage in the treatment of tumors in combination with an artificial joint of proven design in order to reduce stress shielding. RESULTS: No Endlock stem fractures or aseptic loosenings were observed at recent follow-up. The early clinical results comply with the theoretical assumptions. CONCLUSIONS: A short-length fixation system based on intramedullary anchorage of segmental replacement endoprostheses would possibly support physiologic adaptive processes more than fixation over the full length of the stem.