Our study looked at the short and medium-term results of a new and cost-effective method of bone surface preparation and cement introduction. Early failure and loosening of components in knee arthroplasty has been attributed to inadequate bone-cement and prosthesis- cement interfaces, established at the time of surgery. Cement pressurisation and interosseus suction have been shown to achieve effective cement penetration and interdigitation into cancellous bone.

We have devised a technique of cement pressurisation using a modified 20 ml syringe, combined with interosseus suction. Retrospective evaluation of a series of 50 post-operative radiographs of total knee replacements, undertaken without the use of tourniquet, have shown that even and effective penetration of cement to a depth of 8.0 10.6 mm can be achieved consistently using this technique. Evaluation of post-operative radiographs at a minimum of 5 years follow-up showed 16 knees with minor lucent lines about the tibial component with a maximum Knee Society Total Knee Arthroplasty Roentgenographic Score of 2.

In conclusion, we propose that this simple technique of bone surface preparation and cement introduction produces good results in the short and medium term.

Correspondence should be addressed to Major M Butler RAMC, Princess Elizabeth Orthopaedic Centre, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, Devon.