Purpose: To evaluate the functional results of using 3D spacers for IIIA and IIIB defects according to the classification system described by W.G. Paprosky during the first stage of deep hip periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) treatment.
Patients and methods:From 2017 to 2020, 24 patients with hip PJI and IIIA and IIIB acetabular bone defects according to the W.G.Paprosky classification underwent first-stage revision arthroplasty. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 received articulating spacers, and group 2 received 3D custom-made spacers. Function was evaluated by the Harris hip score (HHS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and visual analogue scale (VAS). Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 22.0 for Windows. Student's t-test, Wilcoxon's signed-rank test (to compare parameters before and after surgery) and the Mann-Whitney rank-sum test were used.
Results:In the first group, the average VAS score, HHS, and WOMAC score were 3.3 (± 1.4), 51.3 (± 9.4), and 42.9 (± 5.9), respectively; in the second group, the average VAS score, HHS, and WOMAC score were 1.3 (± 0.9), 69.7 (± 3.6), and 30.1 (± 2.4), respectively. The rating scale data showed a statistically significant improvement in the function of patients in the second group (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:Custom-made 3D spacers used during the first stage of treatment for deep periprosthetic hip infections yielded larger improvements in function and quality of life than articulating spacers.