Isolated acetabular revision with ceramic-on-ceramic bearings using a ceramic head with a metal sleeve

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Acetabular revision surgery is complex, aiming to restore hip function and implant longevity.
• Ceramic-on-ceramic bearings are increasingly used, but their performance in revision settings requires evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of isolated acetabular revision using ceramic-on-ceramic bearings with a ceramic head and metal sleeve.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 53 hip revision surgeries.
• Analysis of patient demographics, follow-up duration, functional scores, and complication rates.
• Comparison of acetabular bone defects in cases of cup loosening versus stable cups.

Main Results:

• Mean modified Harris hip score improved significantly from 47.5 to 84.7 (P<0.001).
• Acup survival rate was 94.3% at mid-term follow-up.
• Two cases of squeaking and three cases of cup loosening (requiring re-revision) were reported. Significant differences in acetabular bone defects were noted between loose and stable cup groups (P=0.018). No ceramic fractures or osteolysis occurred.

Conclusions:

• Ceramic heads with metal sleeves offer a reliable solution for isolated acetabular revisions.
• This bearing type shows promising mid-term survival rates and functional improvement, despite a small incidence of loosening and squeaking.