Use of reconstruction rings for the management of acetabular bone loss during revision hip surgery.

Aseptic loosening remains the leading cause of failure after total hip replacement. Extensive bone loss and acetabular bone stock deficiency are frequently encountered. Simple autografting techniques are often not possible, and copious amounts of allograft may be required to reconstruct the defect. The mechanically stable environment that is a prerequisite for successful graft incorporation cannot be achieved with routine acetabular fixation techniques alone. A reconstruction ring that is secured to the surrounding pelvis provides a more rigid construct. Several types of reconstruction rings are available for the management of acetabular bone loss during revision hip surgery. Early results suggest that these devices may prove to be a useful alternative for treatment of a difficult problem.