A composite plug for occluding the femoral canal prior to cementing a total hip femoral component.

Abstract

An improved technique is presented for placement of a combined polyethylene and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) plug in the femoral medullary canal prior to cementing the femoral component during total hip arthroplasty. PMMA plugs provide excellent occlusion of the canal, but when used alone they often become excessively long. This can make revision surgery, if it becomes necessary, more difficult. By first inserting a polyethylene plug distally in the femoral canal, followed by a bolus of PMMA, the surgeon can limit the length of the cement portion of the plug in the femoral canal while retaining the advantages of a PMMA plug.