Evaluation of a bioglass-coated Al2O3 total hip prosthesis in sheep

A bioglass-coated fully dense alumina total hip was evaluated in sheep without using polymer bone "cement." After 3 months following surgery, both the acetabular cup and femoral stem component were firmly attached to bone. Histologic and radiographic analysis of the bone-implant interface showed regions of woven and even lamellar bone formation where high load transmission occurred. In regions of low loading or poor fit, a pseudosynovial fibrous lining was present.