Deformation of metal-backed acetabular components and the impact of liner thickness in a cadaveric model

Shell deformation of resurfacing and all-metal modular cups following press-fit implantation has been reported, but not for conventional metal-backed cups with polyethylene liners. The deformation of acetabular components with historical and thin polyethylene inserts after press-fit insertion was evaluated using a cadaveric model. All shells and liners deformed upon implantation. Following joint loading, shell pinch decreased from 0.32 to 0.22 mm (p = 0.019) and from 0.29 to 0.13 mm (p = 0.003) for the thin and thick liner groups, respectively. Liner pinch also decreased from 0.17 to 0.04 mm (p = 0.031) and from 0.06 to 0 mm (p = 0.103) for the thin and thick liner groups, respectively. There were no significant differences between the thin and thick liners. Liner deformation was influenced by the initial shell deformation and donor bone quality. Shell and liner pinch decreased following joint loading, suggesting a settling in effect.