[Resurfacing arthroplasty of the hip]

Currently, an increase in resurfacing arthroplasty in the treatment of hip osteoarthritis--especially in young adults--can be observed. New bearing technologies (mainly metal-on-metal surfaces) show better tribologic results than historical designs (e.g. the Wagner cup). At present, it is unclear whether these modifications and a definitively low dislocation rate--due to the large head diameter--can be supported by further good clinical results. The quantity as well as the quality of the available investigations prevents a definite opinion at the moment. Appropriate clinical studies with documented radiographic follow-up are necessary to compare the outcome of these new implants with standard techniques.