ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: Outcome data beyond 11 years of follow-up is not available for the third-generation Zweymüller femoral stem in combination with a polyethylene bearing. We report ten to 15-year results with this total hip arthroplasty (THA) combination in a young population. METHODS: A retrospective, observational, non-randomised, single-centre, clinical observational study was conducted in which 311 primary THAs were performed in 276 patients between 1996 and 2000 using a third-generation Zweymüller stem. The mean age of the patients at operation was 47.4 years (range 18-77 years). RESULTS: Stem survival for any reason was 93.5% after ten years and 89.6% after 13 years, and the probability of aseptic stem loosening was 98.7% at both ten and 13 years. The occurrence of femoral radiolucent lines was low, at just 17.2%. Minor femoral osteolysis was identified in 30% of patients and was attributed to polyethylene liner wear. Clinical and patient satisfaction outcomes were in line with previous investigations, and the rate of adverse events was low. CONCLUSIONS: The third-generation Zweymüller stem shows good radiographic and clinical results and good longevity, including in the younger osteoarthritic patient. The use of low-wear bearings may further reduce the rate of osteolysis and wear-related revision in young and active patients.