Abstract
Dual mobility (DM) cups have 2 points of articulation – between the shell and the polyethylene (external bearing) and between the polyethylene and the femoral head (internal bearing). Primary motion occurs at the inner bearing while the outer bearing moves only in cases of extreme range of motion.
Dislocation is a top reason for revision surgery and a major cost burden on society. Instability is also a significant problem after revision THA. While a variety of factors are important in hip stability, DM cups provide the safety of larger femoral heads in virtually all patients. These larger heads increase jump distance (the distance the femoral must travel before dislocation occurs) and they also increase ROM before impingement occurs.
ROM and impingement are competing with each in primary THA. Especially in the flexible female with small bone structure, their increased ROM significantly increases the risk of impingement during physiologic activities. While not necessarily leading to dislocation, subluxation can occur resulting in pain. Further, ongoing impingement reduces the longevity of the PE. The ability to increase head size and head-neck ration with the DM cups in these patients is both an immediate and long-term advantage.
PE thickness still can compromise the integrity of the liner. DM cups have thicker PE, especially in the smaller size cups than standard PE inserts. Even with the dual articulation, PE wear in DM cups are less, or at worst, equivalent to standard cups while at the same time providing adequate PE thickness for PE integrity and longevity.
