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Updated: Jun 8, 2026

Imaging of the Microstructural Failure Mechanism in the Human Hip
Published on: September 29, 2023
Fracture of a cross-linked polyethylene liner: a multifactorial issue
Thomas J Blumenfeld1, Harry A McKellop, Thomas P Schmalzried
1Sutter Medical Center, University of California at Davis, Sacramento, California 95816, USA.
Abstract:
A limited number of reports have detailed the cause of fracture of a highly cross-linked polyethylene liner. Typically, the fractures have occurred in a region of thin and/or unsupported polyethylene, in association with superiorly directed edge loading conditions secondary to an excessively inclinated acetabular component. This case report details an unusual fracture mechanism of a 5-mrad cross-linked liner caused by horizontal loading conditions. The report details several factors that were felt to be etiologic including the specific liner locking mechanism. The treatment options are discussed.
