Abstract
Introduction The first ceramic knee implant in a human patient was used by Dr. G. Langer of the Orthopaedic Clinic at the University of Jena, Germany in 1972. In 1980, Drs. Oonishi and Hasegave began using a alumina femoral component on a polyethylene tibial component. These early attempts all involve the search for solutions to the wear and degradation problems. The application of ceramics was limited by:
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polyethylene wear and degradation
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demand of thin components
Excellent Scratch resistance AMC Ceramics is much harder than most surgical instruments. In comparison, metal components are easily scratched and damaged during surgery with the consequence of increasing wear.
Surface quality: Surface quality of the articulation surfaces components made from AMC Ceramics provide excellent articulation surfaces.
Low Friction: Knee Components made of AMC Ceramics show a low coefficient of friction. The resulting frictional forces on the prostheses are lower and offer the option for a reduction of aseptic loosening.
Low Allergic Potential: Ceramics are generally not considered as elicitors of allergic reactions. Hypersensitive reactions – especially to nickel – in total joint replacement are discussed as one possible reason for postoperative syndromes.
Surface Lubrication: AMC is a material with a very good surface lubrication capability. A low wetting angle is exhibited by the material.
Conclusion: Knee implants have become an area of great interest in the past years. For more than 10 years ceramic femoral components are used in Japan. Published follow-up data in scientifically journals are promising. Leading orthopaedic surgeons are interested in this option today to reduce the risk of pitting and delamination of Polyethylene. Material improvements are required for young active patients and nickel sensitive patients.
The novel AMC Ceramic offers a solution to minimise the allergic and wear related problems of knee implants. New concepts on the basis of hard on hard combination are technically already realised. The use of knee endoprosthesis with ceramic on ceramic combination is an option for ”zero” wear bearings in the knee.
The abstracts were prepared by Nico Verdonschot. Correspondence should be addressed to him at Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, University Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
