Multilayered bead ceramic composite coating for hip prostheses: experimental studies and preliminary clinical results

The clinical use of a new ceramic composite material made up of multilayered alumina beads and adhered to a ceramic surface with a high-temperature-melting bioglass is proposed. The result is a structure characterised by a 27% porosity and an average pore diameter of 400 microns. The actual structure of the parts as well as their interface interaction were determined by Raman laser. The mechanical resistance of the adherence of this coating for the ceramic substratum was good enough to resist the stress to which it was submitted when used for a new model of prosthetic acetabulum. Experiments with rabbits revealed the good biocompatibility of the composite. The osteoproductive activity of the tissue surrounding the implant led to the gradual filling of the porosity with trabecular structures. The preliminary results of the clinical experience which began in November 1985, confirm the good compatibility of the ceramic composite.