A finite element method comparison of wear in two metal-on-metal total hip prostheses.
The contact mechanics of two metal-on-metal (MOM) total hip prostheses was studied by means of the finite element method (FEM). The purpose of the work was to compare two total hip replacements (Durom and Metasul) with regard to the amount of wear debris released. Wear on the bearing surfaces was evaluated following Reye hypotheses from the pressure distribution, computed by means of three-dimensional FEM models; an approximate analytical model based on Hertz contact theory has also been developed and discussed. The results show that in the dry friction condition the Durom joint releases almost twice as much wear volume as produced by the Metasul joint. Therefore, while Durom implants can improve hip stability by increasing the prosthetic impingement-free range of motion (PIF-ROM), Metasul prostheses can be a valuable solution whenever wear represents a critical choice factor.
Cosmi
F
F
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Trieste, via A. Valerio 10, Trieste, TS 34127, Italy. cosmi@units.it
Hoglievina
M
M
Fancellu
G
G
Martinelli
B
B
D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry; D002858:Chromium Alloys / Q000737:chemistry*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis / Q000379:methods*; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D017276:Friction; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery; D006622:Hip Prosthesis; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D011475:Prosthesis Failure; D013499:Surface Properties
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D002858:Chromium Alloys