Abstract
Purpose: A multicenter prospective evaluation of the Conserve Plus resurfacing implant (Wright Medical Technology) was undertaken to assess clinical and radiographic outcomes as well as ion levels. This study focuses on the serum, erythrocyte and urinary levels of cobalt and chromium in those patients undergoing hip resurfacing arthroplasty.
Methods: A subset of patients enrolled in a multicenter trial to assess hip resurfacing arthroplasty had serum, erythrocyte and urinary cobalt and chromium levels measured. Levels were assessed preoperatively, then at three months, six months then yearly thereafter. Clinical outcome measurements were performed with WOMAC and Rand questionnaires.
Results: Fifty-four out of 124 patients enrolled in the overall study had cobalt and chromium ion assessments performed. During the first year there was an increase in serum cobalt levels from 1.4 ug/l at 3 months to 2.4 ug/l at one year. Serum chromium levels increased from 1.4 ug/l at 3 months to 3.5 ug/l at one year. Erythrocyte cobalt levels increased from 0.8 ug/l at 3 months to 1.4 ug/l at one year. Erythrocyte chromium levels decreased from 1.5 ug/l at 3 months to 1.4 ug/l at one year. Urinary levels for cobalt increased from 12.7 ug/l at 3 months to 13.8 ug/l at one year. Urinary chromium levels rose from 4.0 ug/l at 3 months to 5.1 ug/l at one year.
Conclusions: Increasing ion levels were seen during the first year post hip resurfacing arthroplasty. Clinical outcomes demonstrate predictable improvements in pain and function consistent with hip replacement surgery. Resurfacing arthroplasty is a viable option to total hip arthroplasty for younger active patients. The clinical significance of increased cobalt and chromium ions remains unknown. Funding: Commerical funding Funding Parties: Wright Medical Technology Inc.
Correspondence should be addressed to Cynthia Vezina, Communications Manager, COA, 4150-360 Ste. Catherine St. West, Westmount, QC H3Z 2Y5, Canada
