Is It Advantageous to Strengthen the Cement-Metal Interface and Use a Collar for Cemented Femoral Components of Total Hip Replacements?
The mechanism of initiation of loosening of cemented femoral components is now known. It is debonding at the cement-metal interface. Current data strongly support the concept that a collar and improvement of the cement-metal interface are valuable. Precoating and having a roughened surface proximally and distally on the stem contribute to extended longevity of the cement-metal interface. Using contemporary instrumentation, collar-calcar contact can be achieved regularly and, once achieved, is well maintained for years.