Problem Osteolysis
Abrasion particles have an effect on the lifetime of joint replacement implants
Wear particles, derived from artificial hip joint surfaces (prosthetic head versus prosthetic insert), have a large influence on the survival of artificial hip joints. Wear particles cause early implant loosening, which is the most common reason for implant revision. Such abrasion particles can lead to the disintegration and destruction of normal bone structure (osteolysis). However, this depends to a significant extent on the composition, quantity and size of the abrasion particles as well as on their biological effect on the human body. Therefore one of the most important objectives for the surgeon is to reduce the wear quantity, in order to improve the survival of joint replacements and to avoid implant revision.
To achieve this objective the choice of wear couple is crucial. For more on this subject and for why the use of ceramics is so successful, click here.