Introduction: The treatment of extensive acetabular defects is both extremely difficult and fraught with possible complications. There remains a paucity of data regarding the medium-term survivorship of custom 3D printed acetabular components. The goal of this study was to outline the medium-term outcomes of 3D printed patient specific acetabular components from a single centre retrospective series. 

Methods: A retrospective search was conducted for all cases involving 3D acetabular component use for extensive defects, minimum follow-up duration required was 14months. All patients in this study underwent revision THA using the Promade exclusive implants by Lima Corporation (Villanova di San Daniele del Friuli, Udine, Italy) to reconstruct severe acetabular defects. Primary outcome measure were implant failure, secondary measures investigated were complications including dislocation, nerve injury, return to theatre and infection. 

Results: 8 patients were included in 1centre having undergone patient specific 3D acetabular component use. All patients had Paprosky 3B type defects with pelvic discontinuity. The average length of follow-up was 53months (23-91months). Revision rate is currently 0% (0/8), 0% infection rate, one patient sustained a dislocation and required return to theatre 12.5% (1/8). One neurological complication (1/8) was noted; A pre-existing sciatic nerve injury worsened post-operatively. 

Conclusion: Our study is one of the first to present mid-term evidence with regards to custom 3D component use in this setting. Revision rate of 0% and dislocation rate of 12.5% at a mean of 53 months suggests that 3D acetabular components are a valuable tool for the reconstructive surgeon with promising implant survival and stability. In this patient cohort, whom are often both surgically and medically challenging, 3D custom implants should be considered with a potential of lower complication rates than traditional reconstructive measures. Further research is required to assess long term implant survival and patient outcomes.

Urpinder Grewal is a UK-trained orthopaedic surgeon with a specialized focus on lower limb revision arthroplasty and complex trauma. He successfully completed the FRCS(Orth) examination in 2021 and has since pursued advanced training through three prestigious fellowships. His f irst fellowship was at King's College London, and he is currently furthering his expertise through a fellowship in Perth, Australia. This current fellowship is centered on periprosthetic joint infection and revision arthroplasty, reflecting his commitment to addressing complex orthopaedic challenges with cutting-edge approaches.