[Analysis of the scintigraphic image of bone grafts in reconstruction of total hip prostheses].

Eighteen total hip prostheses required reoperation after loosening of the acetabular component. The authors used autografts (8 cases) or allografts (9 cases) or both (1 case) to reinforce the acetabulum. The fate of the grafts was analysed using Technetium 99 scintigraphy. There were 8 shelf operations and 10 massive grafts replacing either the anterior or posterior wall of the acetabulum. The scintigraphic study came to the conclusion that autografts resulted in intense reaction with fixation after two to sixteen months. From this it can be assumed that their rehabilitation was satisfactory. In contrast, allografts were poorly incorporated. Scintigraphy in these cases was of low intensity, scattered and was not long-lasting. The authors consider that this type of graft has little chance of producing a solid and homogeneous mass of bone in the long term. They consider that, when necessary, a mixture of autograft and allograft should be used.