Advertisement for orthosearch.org.uk
Orthopaedic Proceedings Logo

Receive monthly Table of Contents alerts from Orthopaedic Proceedings

Comprehensive article alerts can be set up and managed through your account settings

View my account settings

Visit Orthopaedic Proceedings at:

Loading...

Loading...

Full Access

PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY COMPARING CERAMIC/CERAMIC AND CERAMIC/PE BEARING SURFACES IN THA



Abstract

Purpose: Ceramic/ceramic bearing surfaces have the advantage of significantly decreased wear and high biocompatibility compared to CoCr/PE or ceramic/PE. The purpose of this randomized, controlled, multi-center, prospective study was to evaluate the clinical and roentgenographic results of 469 ceramic/ceramic versus 321 ceramic/PE THA at a 2 to 7 year follow-up.

Methods: The ceramic/ceramic THA had a polished alumina femoral head articulating with a polished alumina acetabular liner seated into the metal acetabular shell designed to avoid any impingement of the ceramic liner on the femoral component. Evaluations were completed preoperatively, at 6 months and yearly postoperatively.

Results: Mean age of the 790 patients was 59 years, with slightly more females. There were no significant demographic differences between the two groups. The main diagnoses were OA in 74% and osteonecrosis in 19%. Preoperatively the mean Harris Hip Score (HHS) and WOMAC scores were 44 and 41, respectively, and did not differ significantly between the two groups. At follow-up, the mean HHS was 93 for the ceramic/ ceramic THA and 93 for the ceramic/PE THA. The mean WOMAC scores showed no differences at follow-up. Roentgenographic analysis revealed one acetabular cup migration with a PE liner. One ceramic liner fractured upon insertion that was not properly positioned prior to impaction. Otherwise, there were no revisions or complications related to either bearing surface.

Conclusions: This short-term study has demonstrated efficacy and safety of a ceramic/ceramic bearing surface compared to the standard ceramic/PE surface currently used in clinical practice, with no failures or complications related to the bearing surface. Further follow-up is indicated to determine the long-term outcome.

Funding : Commerical funding

Funding Parties : Encore Orthopaedics

Correspondence should be addressed to Cynthia Vezina, Communications Manager, COA, 4150-360 Ste. Catherine St. West, Westmount, QC H3Z 2Y5, Canada