The rationale, design characteristics, and preliminary results of a primary custom total hip prosthesis.

Seventy-three primary custom-made uncemented hip implants have been inserted since July 1987. The initial clinical results are equivalent to those of conventionally made components, but there has been less residual and recurrent thigh pain with the custom devices. The custom implants have achieved 20% greater canal fill with much less variation than conventionally made devices. Custom components have been particularly useful in patients with significant anatomic deformity and associated arthritis.