Abstract
Introduction
The prevalence of adverse reactions to metal debris around metal-on-metal (MOM) hip replacements has been reported to range from 7 to 69%. Little has been published on MRI scans with conventional total hip bearing surfaces. This study aimed to establish the prevalence of soft tissue lesions associated with metal-on-polyethylene (MOP) and ceramic-on-ceramic (COC) bearings, compared to MOM prostheses.
Patients/Materials & Methods
All Metal Artefact Reduction Sequence (MARS) MRI scans for MOM THRs performed at our unit from January 2009 to present were reviewed, identifying those with contralateral primary MOP or COC THRs included on the scan. These were compared to a previously analysed cohort of 281 MOM THRs. Scans were classified using the Modified Oxford Classification as ‘Normal’, ‘Trochanteric Fluid’, ‘Effusions’ or Adverse Reactions to Debris.
Results
72 MOP and 17 COC prostheses were identified. More abnormalities were seen with scans performed within 12 months of surgery; 7 of 11 having findings consistent with post-operative seromas. These 11 were therefore excluded from further analysis.
A higher proportion of normal MRIs were seen in the conventional prostheses group (78% v 34%, p<0.001). Adverse reactions to debris were significantly more common in MOM prostheses (39% v 4%, p<0.001). Effusions were more common with MOM bearings (13% v 4%, p=0.028). There was no difference in the rates of trochanteric fluid (both groups 14%).
Discussion
A much higher rate of clinically significant fluid collections were seen with MOM prostheses as a result of increased toxicity of metal debris versus polyethylene or ceramic. There was little difference between MOP and COC scans. Trochanteric fluid collections are more likely to represent bursitis than any problem with the bearing surface.
Conclusion
These results provide a useful baseline for comparison of MOM MARS MRI scans, adding to our understanding of the unique failure patterns of MOM prostheses.
