Biocompatibility
BIOLOX® Ceramics are bioinert and do not cause unwanted allergic responses
In addition to their very high wear resistance, BIOLOX® ceramics have a further advantage: they are bioinert. They undergo no chemical reactions in the human body on account of their strong chemical bonding and their high purity. And they do not release metal ions.
Consequently BIOLOX® ceramics distinguish themselves on account of their superior tissue compatibility and because they do not cause unwanted allergic responses. More than 35 years of clinical experience and a great deal of research have demonstrated their superior biocompatibility. For these reasons ceramic/ceramic wear couples are recommended in the medical literature.
The possibility of unwanted allergic responses and health risks as a result of metal wear cannot be ruled out
An ever increasing quantity of publications report on allergic reactions to the constituents of the metal alloys used in both hip and knee replacements. Metallic elements such as nickel, chromium and cobalt are well-known contact allergens, which can cause many unwanted reactions in the human body. The medical literature contains innumerable articles which report on the immune response and hypersensitivity reactions to metals and their effect on the life expectancy of implants.
Allergic reactions to the metallic constituents of metal alloys are cited as possible causes for osteolysis, early implant loosening and postoperative complications such as delayed wound healing, delayed bone healing and eczema. Consequently allergic reactions to metal implants can lead to the joint replacement having to be removed and replaced.
In the medical literature the use of a metal/metal prosthesis is not recommended for patients with metal sensitivity and chronic kidney disease. There is uncertainty over the possible effects caused by the long term loading of the human body with small metallic wear particles and metal ions. Whether released metal ions have a tumour-causing effect is still not absolutely certain. However, some publications have raised the suspicion that a weakening of the bodys own resistance to infection is one possible effect of this disturbance to the immunological system.
These conclusions are based on scientific articles and medical publications.