Total joint replacement: where are we today, and where are we headed?
With the advent of noncemented total joint prostheses, today's orthopedic surgeons are asking questions about the predictability and performance of newer biologically fixed implants. Reported experience to date has failed to document any improved parameters of performance; instead, problems of prolonged convalescence, postoperative pain, and difficulties in revision procedures have been noted. Other issues of concern relate to the potential harmful effects of ion leaching, and problems of stress shielding and stress overload due to the physical properties of the materials presently available. Current investigative efforts to resolve these problems look promising, though surgeons should realize that science is a long way from producing the perfect total joint prosthesis.
Volz
R G
RG
Section of Orthopedic Surgery, Arizona Health Sciences Center, Tucson 85724.
D000375:Aging; D000497:Alloys; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001843:Bone Cements; D001862:Bone Resorption; D003778:Dentures; D005544:Forecasting; D006622:Hip Prosthesis; D006801:Humans; D007595:Joint Prosthesis / Q000639:trends; D011474:Prosthesis Design
D000497:Alloys; D001843:Bone Cements