The cup-cage reconstruction for pelvic discontinuity has encouraging patient satisfaction and functional outcome at median 6-year follow-up.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to review the clinical, radiological and patient-reported outcomes with the use of cup-cage construct for pelvic discontinuity at our institution.

METHODS

24 patients were identified at median 6-year (minimum 2 year, maximum 10 years) follow-up. 1 patient was converted to excision arthroplasty for infection. A further 3 patients required revision for instability but the cup-cage construct was not revised.

RESULTS

We noted encouraging pain relief (mean WOMAC pain 85.6) and good functional outcome (mean WOMAC function 78.2, mean UCLA 5, mean OHS 78.6). Patient satisfaction with regards pain relief, function and return to recreational activities were noted to be good.

CONCLUSIONS

The cup-cage construct is a viable method of dealing with complex pelvic discontinuity. However, the failure rate due to loosening (4 cases) in this and other reports does prompt the need for further refinement of the technique and technology in this very challenging group of patients, as well as continued evaluation at the mid- and long-term so as to confirm the ongoing success of this method of reconstruction.