From the Research
The Austin Moore prosthesis is a unipolar hip replacement device consisting of several key parts, including a one-piece metallic prosthesis with a large femoral head, a solid or fenestrated stem, a collar, and a curved design to match femoral anatomy. The main component is a one-piece metallic prosthesis with a large femoral head (typically 40-50mm in diameter) that articulates directly with the patient's natural acetabulum. It has a solid or fenestrated stem that inserts into the femoral canal, with the fenestrations (windows or holes) in some models allowing for bone ingrowth to enhance stability 1. The prosthesis includes a collar that rests on the femoral neck cut, distributing load and preventing excessive sinking of the implant. The stem has a curved design to match femoral anatomy and often features flutes or fins on the proximal portion to resist rotation. The prosthesis is typically made of cobalt-chrome alloy for durability and biocompatibility.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the Austin Moore prosthesis include:
- The importance of proper calcar-collar support to prevent pain and revision of the prosthesis 2
- The potential for bone ingrowth to enhance stability in fenestrated models 1
- The use of a press-fit technique to eliminate the need for cement fixation 3
- The establishment of fundamental principles for hip arthroplasty design, which may still be encountered in elderly patients with limited mobility expectations or in resource-limited settings 4
Overall, understanding the components and design of the Austin Moore prosthesis is crucial for evaluating its effectiveness and potential applications in modern hip arthroplasty.