Prior to the development of single use disposable bone cement removal curettes, orthopedic surgeons’ most common options for removing excess soft cement during primary TJR were using a metal tool that was close at hand…a freer, a metal bone curette or other instrument made of steel...or even a gloved finger. With a metal tool, there is increased chance of scratching the prosthesis, possibly resulting in long-term complications. With the cement covered gloved finger a time-consuming re-gloving is required.

At first glance, it seems like such a small component of total joint replacement…Bone Cement Removal. What’s the big deal?  In a procedure that typically lasts two hours or more, the cement removal part is just a fraction of the time.  Why the big concern?  Because this seemingly simple task can have repercussions affecting the outcome of the procedure, the costs associated with the procedure and the longevity of the implant! The important message here is you have choices…you can easily take steps to avoid these situations.