Third-generation ceramic-on-ceramic bearing surfaces in revision total hip arthroplasty

Abstract

With an increase of revision total hip arthroplasty (THA), the choice of bearing surface becomes more important. Wear debris by conventional metal-on-polyethylene articulations may cause extensive osteolysis, especially in young patients. We analyzed the clinical and radiographic outcomes after revision THA using third-generation ceramic-on-ceramic bearing surfaces in 42 hips. The mean age of the patients was 48.8 years (32-59 years), and the mean duration of follow-up monitoring was 5.4 years (3.2-8.0 years). At final follow-up examination, the average Harris Hip Score was 91.3. Although minor complications were observed in 6 hips (14.3%), no hips required additional revision surgery. No hip showed radiolucent lines, acetabular cup migration, or osteolysis. Our data show that clinical and radiographic outcomes after revision THA using third-generation ceramic-on-ceramic bearing surfaces are favorable. Ceramic-on-ceramic bearing surfaces can be preferentially considered for revision THA, especially in young patients. Further studies with long-term follow-up data are warranted.