Detection of bony defects around cementless acetabular components in total hip arthroplasty - A DEXA study on 10 human cadavers

Background We studied the ability of DEXA to detect bony defects around cementless acetabular components in total hip arthroplasty. The aim of our study was to provide a tool for detection and quantification of osteolytic lesions for the planning of revision cases. Methods We measured BMC in 10 human pelvis specimens retrieved from post mortem. We created standardized defects behind inserted acetabular components and compared the ash weights of the removed bone to the corresponding BMC measurements. Results We found a good correlation between the BMC differences measured and the corresponding ash weights. Interpretation We conclude that DEXA can detect even small defects in the bone adjacent to the cup.