Thanks to its special properties, bone cement fulfils two important functions within the framework of its particular application. First and foremost, it serves as a filler between prosthesis components and bone to anchor the endoprosthetic parts firmly and securely to the bone. As such it acts as a medium that takes on the job of transferring and distributing forces. Thanks to its ability to intermesh with and penetrate the porous bone surface, especially in spongy areas, it enlarges the area of contact between cement and bone considerably. This results in a decisive increase in its load-bearing capacity.

Bone cement fulfils a second function as a tried and tested vehicle for pharmaceutical agents. When charged with appropriate antibiotics, it has proven particularly effective in preventing bacterial infections in connection with artificial joint replacements.