[Reactions of the osseous site following implantation of cemented endoprostheses in the femur].

17 autopsy femora with fixed cemented endoprostheses were sectioned horizontally and studied histologically, morphometrically and microradiographically. The implantation period varied between 0 and 12 years. It was frequently found that in distal segments the implant was already loosened shortly after implantation. The morphometrical analyses showed no significant bone changes distal to the trochanter minor. Enhanced microresorption and areas of reduced mineralization were found at the cement-bone interface. The total bone alterations, however, are not very extensive and seem not to be responsible for aseptic loosening, but the frequently inferior fixation instead.