Cup implantation accuracy using the HipCOMPASS mechanical intraoperative support device

BACKGROUND: While navigation systems have been developed to increase implantation accuracy in total hip arthroplasty (THA), they are not yet sufficiently versatile or commonly used. Therefore, to elevate the appeal of such systems, we have developed HipCOMPASS, a simple and effective mechanical angle indicator for use in supine THA. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: How accurate is the mean cup orientation [in terms of errors in radiographic anteversion (RA) and inclination (RI)] in cases where HipCOMPASS is used for intraoperative support? Does HipCOMPASS increase this cup orientation accuracy compared to THA cases without it? Does HipCOMPASS increase mean operation time? METHODS: We measured cup orientation in 97 THA cases with HipCOMPASS and in 80 cases without it. Then we compared the angles determined in preoperative planning with the angles revealed by postoperative computed tomography (CT) for both groups. The discrepancy between them was defined as an error. Errors greater than 10° were considered outliers. Additionally, mean operative time with and without the Hip COMPASS were compared. RESULTS: With the use of HipCOMPASS, the mean absolute error values in radiographic anteversion and inclination were 2.9° ± 2.3° (range 0°–12.8°) and 2.9° ± 2.1° (0.1°–7.7°), respectively. In contrast, without the use of HipCOMPASS, radiographic anteversion and inclination error values were 8.8° ± 5.8° (0.1°–25.4°) and 6.1° ± 4.5° (0.2°–21.0°), respectively. Outlier occurrence rates were 1.0 % with HipCOMPASS and 48.8 % without it. Mean operative times with and without HipCOMPASS use were 109.2 ± 23.8 min (74–199 min) and 137.6 ± 40.6 min (71–298 min), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The study has found that HipCOMPASS dramatically increases implantation accuracy and it is also a simple and highly versatile tool that can be implemented quickly. Given its low cost in addition to its favourable accuracy, simple implementation, and short operative time, HipCOMPASS can be regarded as a very useful and effective THA support device. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective comparative study, Level 3.