Xiaoyuan Gong

Introduction: In cases of hip joint damage, such as osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), avascular necrosis, or hip fractures, total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a critical surgical intervention. For individuals whose hip abnormalities stem from congenital issues, injuries, or previous operations, this procedure can encounter considerable obstacles, including complex bone defects, soft tissue deficiencies, and an increased risk of infections, which may result in poor alignment, joint instability, and higher need for revisions. This study explored the application of personalized, three-dimensional (3D)-printed porous tantalum buttresses designed specifically for acetabular reconstruction. Renowned for its compatibility with human biology, tantalum facilitates superior integration with natural bone.Methods: The development process started with the generation of meticulous computer-aided design (CAD) models, derived from preoperative imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) scans and (magnetic resonance imaging) MRIs, which allowed for the creation of components precisely matching each patient’s unique anatomical structure. The 3D-printed porous tantalum buttresses were made by cutting-edge additive manufacturing methods. The porosity of the tantalum structure promoted the growth of new bone tissue into the implant, improving its stability and durability. During surgeries, the buttress was positioned to reconstruct the acetabulum, laying a solid foundation for the artificial hip joint.Results: The results of our study showed that all surgeries were successfully completed with no significant vascular or nerve damage. Postoperative evaluations showed that the buttress had excellent biomechanical function and firm fixation, with a large amount of bone ingrowth, improving the fitness and performance of the implant while reducing the possibility of subsequent problems such as loosening or dislocation.Discussion: This innovative technique has great potential in clinical practice for better outcomes and quality of life for patients with complex hip deformities.

Background Debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) for acute periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is under debated since the reported success rate is inconsistent. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) used as an adjunct to irrigation and debridement for acute PJI. Methods Patients undergoing debridement, irrigation with component retention, and application of vacuum seal drainage in the deep portion surrounding the infected sites from January 2014 to February 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The definition of failure included the requirement of prosthesis removal; persistent infection-related symptoms; suppressive antibiotics therapy due to failure of controlling the infection; infection-related death. Results 45 patients were included in this study with a mean follow-up of 45.62 ± 13.87 months. There were 28 males and 17 females with a mean age of 63.29 ± 17.74 months. The overall success rate was 86.67% with 6 failures. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant association between Charlson comorbidity index and treatment failure (OR = 2.226, 95% CI, 1.057–4.687, p = 0.035). Conclusions The incorporation of VSD in the deeper region enhances the outcomes of DAIR, achieving an 86.67% success rate in managing acute PJI. This approach offers a potentially safe and effective treatment, though patients with higher Charlson comorbidity index and elevated preoperative CRP levels face increased risks of failure.