In vivo construction of a metal-backed, high-molecular-weight polyethylene cup during McKee-Farrar revision total joint arthroplasty. A case report.

The need for revision total hip arthroplasty after metal-to-metal articulating prostheses is well known. An alternative to conventional acetabular revision in the clinical circumstance of isolated femoral component loosening is in vivo construction of a metal-backed, high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMWPE) acetabular component. This surgical approach reduces the likelihood of intraoperative acetabular bone loss, should minimize subsequent loosening, and virtually eliminates the source of metallic wear debris. Follow-up evaluation after 3 years revealed maintenance of the acetabular component position and a satisfactory clinical result. In vivo construction of a metal-backed HMWPE acetabular component is an effective alternative in the management of this potentially difficult orthopedic problem.