Fracture of a metal-backed acetabular component in total hip arthroplasty. A case report.

Metal-backed acetabular components offer the advantage of a lower incidence of loosening. The case of a 33-year-old man emphasizes the potential problem of fracture of both the polyethylene and metal-backed structures. Although this case report may represent an unusual and infrequent occurrence, it emphasizes a potential failure mode for acetabular components with metal backing. While fracture of the polyethylene has been previously reported, little thought has been given to the further potential of fracture of metal-backed support. The clinical profile as well as the roentgenographic appearance of such a phenomenon is presented for further sophistication of the surgeon when dealing in the challenging area of hip arthroplasty.