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[The first total hip prostheses in man (1890 - 1960)]
L P Fischer1, W Planchamp, B Fischer
1Hopital E. Herriot, pavillon T. Place d'Arsonval, 69437 Lyon Cedex 03, France.
Histoire Des Sciences Medicales
|October 20, 2001
Summary
The development of total hip prostheses began in the late 19th century, with early attempts using ivory and platinum. Significant advancements occurred in the mid-20th century, leading to the successful Charnley low-friction arthroplasty.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomaterials science
- Medical device development
Context:
- Early attempts at joint replacement date back to the late 19th century.
- The concept of total hip prostheses evolved over 60 years.
- Materials progressed from ivory and platinum to vitallium, acrylic, and polyethylene.
Purpose:
- To trace the historical evolution of total hip arthroplasty.
- To identify key innovations and pioneers in hip prosthesis development.
- To highlight the transition from early unsuccessful attempts to successful modern designs.
Summary:
- Initial prostheses by Gluck and Pean (1880s-1890s) were largely unsuccessful.
- Mid-20th century saw innovations like Smith-Petersen molds, Bohlmann-Moore femoral components, and Judet acrylic heads.
- The Charnley low-friction arthroplasty (1962), utilizing acrylic cement and a polyethylene cup, marked a significant breakthrough and remains influential.
Impact:
- Laid the groundwork for modern orthopedic surgery and joint replacement.
- Established the foundation for current total hip prosthesis designs.
- Demonstrated the critical role of material science and surgical technique in successful arthroplasty.