Revision total hip arthroplasty with shelf bulk allografts. A long-term follow-up study.

A series of 29 shelf ( < 50% of the acetabulum) structural allografts were done in conjunction with acetabular revision with a minimum follow-up period of 5 years (average, 7.1 years). At the latest follow-up examination, 86% of the hips were successful both clinically and radiologically. Only four patients required further surgery, with two of these being revised with no additional grafts. The use of bulk allograft in conjunction with acetabular revision is supported, provided that at least 50% support of the cup can be obtained with host-bone. This type of reconstruction provides support for the cup and restores anatomy, leg length, and bone stock should future revision be necessary.