Radiographic Fit and Fill Analysis of a New Second-Generation Proximally Coated Cementless Stem Compared To Its Predicate Design

The purpose of this study was to compare in vivo fit and fill analysis of a new second-generation proximally coated cementless stem compared to its predicate design. This prospective trial of 100 total hip arthroplasties compared specific radiographic “Fit and Fill” parameters between the two designs. Fit type was assessed by comparing the type of canal fill. Post-operative fill parameters such as mean stem-to-canal ratios and mean minimum and maximum gaps between the stems to the cortical bone in different sections and areas were compared. A significantly higher proportion of the second-generation stems had Type I fit (82% vs. 54%), had better stem to canal fill ratio in the middle (90.6% vs. 85.3%) and distal sections (88.1% vs. 78.6%) compared to the older design. The new second-generation stem design had a significantly better canal fit and distal canal fill in the medial and lateral portions.