Abstract
The longevity of hip arthroplasty is especially important in young patients. High quality polythene and metals, coupled with improved bone cement and cementing techniques, have led to increased longevity. Of particular importance has been the cross-linking of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, which almost completely eliminates implant wear and projects the lifespan beyond the second decade.
In a three to four-year follow-up of patients, including a random sample of females under the age of 20 years, we have found the entire arthroplasty unchanged. The interface often becomes better integrated with time. The fact that there is no polythene debris is likely to have a direct effect on the longevity of the arthroplasty.
These results suggest that surgery can be contemplated in very young patients.
The abstracts were edited by Prof. M.B.E. Sweet. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical School, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193 South Africa
