title: Comparison of alumina-alumina to metal-polyethylene bearing surfaces in THA: a randomized study with 4- to 9-years follow-up.
abstract: We report the clinical and radiological results of 140 primary THAs, randomized to receive metal-polyethylene or alumina-alumina bearing surfaces. At last follow-up (average 79 months), no significant difference was found on clinical scores (WOMAC and Merle D'Aubigné) between the two groups. However, linear wear of 1 mm or more of the liner was observed in 89% (50/56) of polyethylene cases, whereas no measurable wear was noted in the alumima-on-alumina group. Calcar resorption was noted in 34% (19/56) of cases in the polyethylene group versus 6% (3/51) in the alumina group. Although no aseptic loosening was present in either group, 2 hips in the polyethylene group underwent revision for severe liner wear, and 2 more are pending. No specific complication was associated with alumina components. This study is in line with other reports indicating that alumina-alumina bearing surfaces have better wear properties than metal-on standard polyethylene and should be considered for THA in young and active patients.
authors.affiliation: Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
authors.forename: PascalA
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Vendittoli
authors.forename: Julien
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Girard
authors.forename: Martin
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lavigne
authors.forename: Pauline
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Lavoie
authors.forename: Nicolas
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Duval
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000537:Aluminum Oxide; D019644:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006622:Hip Prosthesis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008670:Metals; D008875:Middle Aged; D020959:Polyethylene; D011474:Prosthesis Design
chemical_list: D008670:Metals; D020959:Polyethylene; D000537:Aluminum Oxide