Volumetric wear assessment of retrieved metal-on-metal hip prostheses and the impact of measurement uncertainty

► Comprehensive measurement method outlined based on current best practice. ► The effect of uncertainty of each part of the measurement process quantified. ► The method applied to the issue of wear of metal-on-metal retrieval bearings and issues discussed. ► Uncertainty found to be of a similar order to the wear measured if standard measurement method adopted. ► Problems with current standards identified and solutions presented.