The choice of the right prosthesis is one of the most important decisions for patients and surgeons when it comes to hip replacement. In recent years, the short stem has established itself as a modern alternative to conventional straight stems. Through its innovative design, it offers numerous advantages, particularly in terms of bone preservation, natural force transmission, and faster rehabilitation.

In this comprehensive article, we discuss the benefits of the short stem and compare it with traditional straight stems. We also examine for which patients this technique is particularly suitable and why it is shaping the future of endoprosthetics.

Anatomy of the hip and the need for joint replacement

The human hip joint is one of the most heavily stressed joints in the body. It consists of the femoral head and the acetabulum, which are protected by a stable joint capsule and a complex muscle structure.

With increasing age or due to certain diseases such as osteoarthritis, the joint can wear out, leading to severe pain and limited mobility. In such cases, hip replacement may be necessary to improve the quality of life for patients.

What is a short stem for the hip?

A short stem is a special form of hip prosthesis that is shorter and rounder compared to conventional straight stems and enables bone-preserving anchoring in the femur.

Special features of a short stem:

• Shortened stem length: In contrast to traditional straight stems, the short stem is significantly shorter, which promotes minimally invasive implantation.
• Bone-preserving design: The bone is spared, which is particularly advantageous for younger patients who may require a revision in the future.
• Anatomical adaptation: The shape of the short stem adapts to the natural anatomy of the femur and ensures optimal force transmission.
• Stable anchoring: Despite its shorter length, the short stem ensures stable fixation in the bone, often through cement-free implantation.

Advantages of the short stem compared to conventional straight stems

1. Bone preservation and improved revision options

One of the biggest advantages of the short stem is the significant bone preservation. Since less bone material needs to be removed, more of the patient's own bone substance is preserved. This is particularly important if a revision surgery is required in the future.

2. Minimally invasive surgical technique

Due to the reduced stem design, the short stem can be implanted minimally invasively . This means:

• Smaller incisions
• Less tissue trauma
• Faster wound healing
• Reduced postoperative pain
• Faster mobilization

3. Physiological force transmission

The short stem enables a more natural distribution of forces in the femur, reducing the risk of bone resorption due to "stress shielding".

4. Faster Rehabilitation

Patients with a short-stem prosthesis benefit from faster rehabilitation. Studies show that they are often mobilized earlier and can resume daily activities more quickly.

Comparison: Short stem vs. straight stem

The short stem offers high bone preservation, while the straight stem is associated with a larger resection of the bone. The minimally invasive surgical technique of the short stem enables smaller skin incisions and less tissue trauma compared to the straight stem. In terms of load-bearing capacity, both stem types are equivalent, but revision is easier to perform with the short stem, as more bone is preserved. The healing time is also usually shorter with the short stem, allowing patients a faster return to everyday life. In addition, tissue preservation is significantly higher with the short stem than with conventional straight stems.

Which patients benefit particularly from the short stem?

Not every patient is suitable for a short stem prosthesis. However, the following patients benefit particularly:

• Younger patients who may require revision surgery in the future
• Aktive Menschen, die eine schnelle Rehabilitation wünschen
• Patients with good bone quality, as the short stem requires a solid anchorage in the bone

Conclusion: Short stem for the hip is gaining acceptance!

The short stem represents a modern, bone-preserving, and gentle alternative to traditional straight stems. Thanks to the minimally invasive surgical technique, improved force transmission, and faster rehabilitation, it offers numerous benefits for many patients.

Anyone interested in a hip prosthesis should consult an experienced hip specialist to find the optimal solution for their individual needs.