Protrusio Acetabuli Prosthetica - a cause of a Pelvic Mass Presenting to the Gynaecologist

J Orthop Case Rep. 2012 Apr-Jun;2(2):27-8.

Abstract

Introduction: Intrapelvic complications resulting from total hip arthroplasty are rare. Intrapelvic migration of the acetabular cup along with proximal migration of the femoral stem is one of these entities. Despite being a rare entity, there are serious complications.

Case report: We report a case image of an elderly lady who presented 6 months after total hip arthroplasty to her general practitioner and gynaecologist complaining of a palpable hard pelvic mass as well as difficulty walking. This proved to be the result of protrusio acetabuli prosthetica. This was reconstructed using saddle prosthesis.

Conclusion: Protrusio Acetabuli Prosthetica can present as pelvic mass without any other associated symtoms. Although a rare complication, with noted morbidity, it might still be reconstructable.

Keywords: Total hip arthroplasty (THA); acetabular cup; intrapelvic migration.