The actual status of acrylic bone cement in total hip replacement. A review.

The utilization of polymethylmethacrylate to sta· hilize· total hip replacements has tremendously in· creased since Charnley introduced the acrylic cement as a fixative in 1960. M~ny contemporary studies and experiments have resulted in increased knowledge about cement pro· perties and side.effects. In tbis article the present status of acrylic cement in total hip replacement is contemplated, with the aid of a comprehensive and actual review of the Uierature, and supplemented with remarks and recommendations resulting from a longlasting expe· rience with cemented hip arthroplasties in our clinic. Native knowledge of mixing and handling instruc· tions regarding the application of each separate cement is indespensable, while also the importance of practising meticulous cementing techniques in order to obtain optimal primary implant fixation, is .strongly emphasized. When hip replacements are performed according to these developments, a reduc· tion of mechanical loosening of cemented hip arthro· plasties is liable to be achieved.