Revision total hip arthroplasty using ultrasonically driven tools. A clinical evaluation.

A three-center clinical evaluation of the use of ultrasonic instrumentation for cement removal during 90 revision total hip arthroplasties was undertaken. In conjunction with hand tools, cement removal was facilitated with ultrasonic tools. Superficial bone burns were seen in eight cases (9%). Bone perforations were created with ultrasonic tools in three cases (4%)--two followed perforations already created by hand tools in the proximal metaphyseal area. Only one perforation (1%) was made in the shaft of the femur. Ultrasonic instrumentation is a valuable adjunct for cement removal in revision total hip arthroplasty.