Ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty: A new standard

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is durable and reliable at relieving pain and improving function in patients with end stage arthritis of the hip joint. Changing patient demographics, risk for aseptic loosening, and instability remain major barriers for long-term implant survivorship. Modern ceramic bearings used in THA have enjoyed good long-term clinical track record and the reliability of these components continues to improve with better materials, surgical technique, and implant design. Coupled with excellent wear characteristics and optimum bearing lubrication with larger head sizes, modern ceramic-on-ceramic THAs can address all of these concerns without the complications of volumetric polyethylene wear associated with the use of large metal ball heads with polyethylene. Consequently, modern ceramics represent the new standard in bearing surfaces for patients undergoing hip replacement surgery.