The Role of Nickel-titanium Shape Memory Alloy Embracing Fixator in Determination of the Implantation Angle of Hip Tumor Prosthesis Stem Following Tumor Resection and the Analysis of Its Efficacy: a Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: To explore the role of nickel-titanium(NiTi) shape memory alloy embracing fixator in determination of implantation angle of hip tumor prosthesis stem and analyze its efficacy. Methods: 36 patients with proximal femur tumor were treated with extended tumor resection and prosthetic replacement. 14 patients received prosthetic replacements with the embracing fixators fixing between the junction of the prosthesis stem and the femur temporarily, while the other 22 patients received the same replacements but without the fixators. Following aspects were compared: occurrence of complications, limb function and active hip ROM.Results: There are fewer cases of hip dislocation in the group received prosthetic replacements with the use of embracing fixators. Occurrence of deep infection presented no difference between the two groups. Better limb function and higher active range of motion (ROM) on abduction or flexion were also found in the group using embracing fixators. Conclusion: Ni-Ti shape memory alloy embracing fixator plays a key part in assisting the accurate implantation angle of the prosthesis stem in the prosthetic replacement. The prosthesis stem can be adjusted to the optimal angle with the help of the embracing fixator. Patients have lower chance of dislocation, better limb function, and higher active hip ROM. Trial registration: retrospectively registered.