Osteolysis of the greater trochanter following reattachment of hip abductors using polyester suture in total hip arthroplasty

We report a specific pattern of osteolysis around bone tunnels on the lateral cortex of the greater trochanter following abductor reattachment using a polyester suture. Radiographs of 395 patients who underwent cemented THA during a four year period between 1999 and 2003 were reviewed. 27 patients had abductor reattachment using number 5 Ethibond(TM) suture through bone tunnels. These patients displayed a predominantly osteolytic pattern of bone reaction around the greater trochanter bone tunnels. All patients were subsequently reviewed in clinic at 4-7 years following surgery. Three patterns of response were observed around the bone tunnels. Recognition of this unique osteolysis pattern may be important in the investigation of complications following cemented THA. (Hip International 2009; 19: 274-78)