The stability of dual-taper modular hip implants: a biomechanical analysis examining the effect of impact location on component stability

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to investigate the stability of dual-taper modular implants following impaction forces delivered at varying locations as measured by the distraction forces required to disassemble the components. METHODS: Distraction of the head-neck and neck-stem (NS) tapers of dual-taper modular implants with 0°, 8°, and 15° neck angles were measured utilizing a custom-made distraction fixture attached to a servohydraulic materials test machine. Distraction was measured after hand pressing the components as well as following a simulated firm hammer blow impaction. Impacts to the 0°, 8°, 15° necks were directed axially in line with the neck, 10° anterior, and 10° proximal to the axis of the neck, respectively. RESULTS: Impaction increased the range of NS component distraction forces when compared to hand pressed components (1125-1743 N vs 248-302 N, respectively). Off-axis impacts resulted in significantly reduced mean (±95% confidence interval) distraction forces (8° neck, 1125 ± 117 N; 15° neck, 1212 ± 73 N), which were up to 35% lower than the mean distraction force for axial impacts to the 0° neck (1743 ± 138 N). CONCLUSIONS: Direction of impaction influences stability of the modular interface. The greatest stability was achieved with impaction directed in line with the longitudinal axis of the taper junction. Off-axis impaction of the 8° and 15° neck led to significantly reduced stability at the NS. Improving stability of dual-taper modular hip prostheses with appropriately directed impaction may help to minimize micromotion, component settling, fretting corrosion, and subsequent failure.