title: The acetabular insert-metal backing interface: an additional source of polyethylene wear debris.
abstract: In cementless acetabular arthroplasty, the interface between the metal backing and the ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene acetabular insert surface is a potential source of polyethylene debris. This study of 55 early-generation acetabular inserts found that severe wear of the convex insert surface correlates with osteolysis. Wear of the concave insert surface did not correlate strongly with osteolysis probably owing to prevalent micromotion and wear at the convex surface interface. Although concern over linear wear predominates with contemporary designs, if initial liner engagement is compromised or locking mechanism failure occurs with time, the convex insert surface again may become a significant source of debris contributing to osteolysis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ohio State University, Columbus, USA.
authors.forename: Ray C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Wasielewski
authors.forename: Joshua J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Jacobs
authors.forename: Barrington
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Arthurs
authors.forename: Harry E
authors.initials: HE
authors.lastname: Rubash
mesh_terms: D000077:Acetabulum; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000209:etiology*; D006622:Hip Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D010014:Osteolysis / Q000209:etiology*; D020959:Polyethylene / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011475:Prosthesis Failure
chemical_list: D020959:Polyethylene