A double-blind, prospective, randomized controlled trial comparing highly cross-linked and conventional polyethylene in primary total hip arthroplasty.
Highly cross-linked polyethylene was developed to reduce articular bearing wear in total hip arthroplasty. In vitro studies have shown reduced wear in comparison with conventional polyethylene. A double-blind, prospective, randomized trial was performed comparing highly cross-linked and conventional polyethylene in 119 patients. The primary outcome variables were linear, 3-dimensional, and volumetric wear as determined by analysis of digitized radiographs using validated wear measurement software. Linear, 3-dimensional, and volumetric wear rates were significantly less in the highly cross-linked polyethylene group between 6 months and 4 years postoperatively (P < .05). The data presented here show that highly cross-linked polyethylene reduces short-term polyethylene wear. The intermediate and long-term clinical results of highly cross-linked polyethylene remain unknown pending further follow-up.
Calvert
George T
GT
Department of Surgery, Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Wellington School of Medicine, Wellington, New Zealand.
Devane
Peter A
PA
Fielden
Jan
J
Adams
Kathryn
K
Horne
J Geoffrey
JG
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D019644:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D005260:Female; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006622:Hip Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008422:Materials Testing; D008875:Middle Aged; D011095:Polyethylenes / Q000737:chemistry*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011475:Prosthesis Failure; D011859:Radiography; D013997:Time Factors
D011095:Polyethylenes