title: Microscopic anatomy of a femoral head after resurfacing arthroplasty: a case report.
abstract: The femoral head was removed after delayed sepsis in a resurfacing arthroplasty in a 50-year-old woman 12 months postoperation. Histologic sections showed intimate bonding between the femoral cup, cement and subjacent bone without evidence of excessive resorptive activity. The femoral head appeared viable within the cup and showed osteoblastic activity. The layers of fibrous tissue interposed between cement and bone appear to be a stage in the reparative process leading to effective anchoring of the cup rather than being a step toward bone resorption and loosening of the cup. A viable femoral head with an adequate blood supply is essential for healing of resurfacing arthroplasty. Osteogenesis in the resurfaced femoral head may be the important factor in the long-term success of an arthroplasty. Adequate blood supply may prevent avascular necrosis and subsequent "collapse".
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D005270:Femur Head / Q000473:pathology*; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D006622:Hip Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008768:Methylmethacrylates; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D008768:Methylmethacrylates