Ceramic Materials in Total Joint Arthroplasty

Abstract

Bearing surfaces made of ceramic materials are an alternative to metal-on-polyethylene (PE) articulations in total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty. The advantage of ceramic surfaces in total joints is the reduction in wear rates compared with metal-on-PE. Lower wear rates result in a decreased volume of wear particles produced by the articulating surfaces. In theory, this should reduce the risk of periprosthetic osteolysis and premature implant loosening, thereby contributing to the longevity of prosthetic joints. In addition to ceramics, other alternative bearings, such as highly cross-linked PE and metal-on-metal, also offer decreased wear rates when compared with metal-on-PE articulations in total joint arthroplasty. Alumina and zirconia ceramics are familiar to orthopedic surgeons because both materials have a long history of use in total joint bearings. Alumina-on-alumina ceramic total hip articulations are now available in the United States from several implant manufacturers. Composite materials made by combining alumina and zirconia, metal-on-ceramic articulations, and new ceramic materials will offer even more choices as the search for the ideal bearing combination in total joint arthroplasty continues. The purpose of this article is to review the material properties, clinical applications, evolution, and limitations of the ceramic materials used in total joint bearings.

Department(s)

Materials Science and Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Biomaterials; Total Joint Arthroplasty; Biomedical materials; Ceramics

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

1045-4527

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2006 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2006

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