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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Potentiodynamic Corrosion Testing
Published on: September 4, 2016
Ten-year follow-up of Müller hip replacements
Abstract:
During 1969-72 138 total hip replacements were performed according to the technique of Müller. The mean age of the patients at operation was 65.4 years. The results were analysed 9-12 years after the operation. Deep infection occurred in two cases necessitating removal of the prosthesis. Eighteen per cent (25/138) were reoperated on because of mechanical failure, the prosthesis was exchanged in 20 of them. Radiological signs of loosening of either component were found in a further 17 patients; only two had symptoms. The total loosening rate was thus 33 per cent (42/138). Twenty-six patients with 31 operated hips died during the observation period. In all of these the aim of the operation was achieved. The remaining cases were evaluated for the long-term results of total hip replacement. These were found to be satisfactory in all of but two cases with symptoms of mechanical failure. Loosening of the femoral stem was associated with varus position, while no relationship was found between loosening of the acetabular cup and the degree of inclination.
Insights
Long-term total hip replacement using Müller
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Müller total hip replacement technique was widely used between 1969-1972.
- Assessing long-term outcomes is crucial for patient care and surgical technique refinement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy and complications of Müller total hip replacement.
- To identify factors associated with implant failure and loosening.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 138 Müller total hip replacements performed between 1969-1972.
- Follow-up period of 9-12 years post-operation.
- Assessment of complications including infection, mechanical failure, and radiological loosening.
Main Results:
- Deep infection rate was 1.4% (2/138), requiring prosthesis removal.
- Mechanical failure led to reoperation in 18% (25/138) of cases.
- Overall loosening rate was 33% (42/138), with femoral stem loosening linked to varus positioning.
Conclusions:
- Müller total hip replacement demonstrated satisfactory long-term functional outcomes in most patients.
- Implant loosening and mechanical failures are significant long-term concerns.
- Understanding factors like varus positioning is key to improving total hip replacement longevity.

