Modern manufacturing techniques and developments have increased the strength and reliability of ceramic materials.
Ceramic on ceramic hip replacement bearings.
Interest in ceramic on ceramic hip replacement is increasing as a result of the realization of osteolysis associated with wear debris generation in conventional metal on polyethylene bearings and metallosis associated with metal on metal articulations.
The aim of this systematic review is to answer three questions.
There is minimal dimensional mismatch between the head and cup and there is no translational movement.
1 are there risk factors for ceramic component fracture following total hip replacement.
The clinical use of ceramic as a bearing surface dates back to the early 1970s.
At present ceramics are used only in the hip because hip components have simple design and shape.
The type of ceramic used in total hip replacement today is aluminum oxide also known as alumina.
The alternative bearing couples such as metal on polyethylene and metal on metal are more inclined to wear and produce particulate debris.
Ceramic bearing surfaces are increasingly used for total hip replacement notwithstanding that concern is still related to ceramic brittleness and its possible mechanical failure.
At present one million total hip replacements are done worldwide of these about 25 are ceramic on polyethylene and another 10 is ceramic on ceramic.