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In vivo wear reduction of argon compared to air sterilized UHMW-polyethylene liners
J H M Goosen1, C C P M Verheyen, B J Kollen
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Isala Clinics, P.O. Box 10500, 8000 GM, Zwolle, The Netherlands. j.h.m.goosen@isala.nl
Introduction:
To date, no studies have been published that report on the in vivo advantages of sterilisation in argon (ARGON) versus air (AIR) of UHMWPE liners with respect to wear extend and pattern in uncemented total hip arthroplasty.
Method:
Femoral penetration rates were measured in 93 AIR and 79 ARGON liners, during a mean follow-up of 8 (3-12) years.
Results:
During the first 3 years after implantation, both groups showed no differences in mean wear rate (P = 0.13). Thereafter, the ARGON liner demonstrated a decrease in wear rate of 0.04 mm/year from 4 to 6 years (P = 0.006), 0.14 mm/year from 7 to 9 years (P < 0.001), and 0.33 mm/year beyond 9 years follow-up (P = 0.015) compared to the AIR liner. One AIR acetabular component required revision.
