The effects of modern cementing techniques on the longevity of total hip arthroplasty.

Modern prosthetic design and cementing techniques have dramatically improved femoral component fixation. Compared to studies reported in the 1970s, the incidence of radiographic loosening for periods up to 5 years postoperatively has been reduced by at least a factor of 10. These results are the benchmark by which alternative forms of femoral component fixation must be measured. With the likelihood of increased longevity of total hip arthroplasty resulting from improved fixation, the problems of wear debris from the bearing surfaces and loss of bone stock with time will become preeminent.