[Modern ceramic-on-ceramic bearings in total hip arthroplasty]

Ceramic bearings in total hip arthroplasty were already employed three decades ago, but due to high failure rates, their application decreased. However, improved material and design have led to their regaining popularity. The present study evaluates the short-term results of a modern ceramic-on-ceramic bearing in total hip prosthesis.

229 total hip arthroplasties, alpha Cera Fit, were implanted in 227 patients over a 12-month period. A follow-up, at a minimum of 36 months, was performed. In addition to demographics, the Harris Hip-Score was used to calculate the clinical results and radiological control was also carried out.

The mean age at the time of surgery was 64.6 (+/- 11.7) years. There was no case of deep infection, four patients had superficial wound healing disorders. 197/227 patients with 199 total hip arthroplasties were available for follow-up, with a mean follow-up time of 42 (+/- 2.9) months. The mean Harris Hip-Score was 94.3 (+/- 6.8). Radiological evaluation did not reveal any signs of lysis or loosening. Massive periarticular calcification was seen in three patients, with one that needed surgical debridement.

The presented modern ceramic-on-ceramic bearings in total hip arthroplasty show excellent clinical and radiological short-term results. The material-related complications reported in former publications were no longer seen.