Intra-operative error during Austin Moore hemiarthroplasty

P Weinrauch
Queensland University of Technology, School of Engineering Systems, Brisbane, Australia

Purpose. To examine the frequency of technical errors during implantation of the Austin Moore prosthesis in a public hospital.

Methods. Radiographs and charts of 147 consecutive uncemented Austin Moore hemiarthoplasty patients were retrospectively reviewed with particular reference to intra-operative errors associated with early failure of the prosthesis.

Results. 48% of the patients had at least one error pertinent to implantation and 14% sustained intraoperative fractures. The error rates between relatively junior doctors and consultants were not significantly different.

Conclusion. The uncemented Austin Moore prosthesis is a technically demanding prosthesis that is difficult to implant well. Greater selectivity should be exercised when considering its use for femoral neck fractures.