Purpose: The purpose of this study was to monitor serum cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) levels in patients after metal-on-metal resurfacing hip arthroplasty with the Cormet 2000® prosthesis, and to evaluate the effect of patient characteristics, prosthesis characteristics, clinical and radiographic measures on metal levels.

Methods: Serum Co and Cr levels were determined in 32 patients with Cormet resurfacing prostheses at 0.5, 1 and 2 years postoperatively using ICP-MS and are reported as & #61549;g/L. Control levels were measured in 20 patients without implants.

Results: Medium Co and Cr were 0.21 and 0.16 in controls without implants. Medium Co at 6 months (2.65), 1 year (3.62) and 2 years (2.80), and Cr at 6 months (3.74), 1 year (4.73) and 2 years (4.68) were signifi-cantly increased in the Cormet group when compared to control levels (p < .0001). Metal levels did not correlate with cup inclination, component position, head size, age, weight, sex or Harris Hip scores. Markedly elevated Co (35, 63) and Cr (13, 70) levels were found in two patients with excessive cup abduction. In addition, one patient with a loose implant that required revision had markedly elevated Co (19) and Cr (44) levels.

Conclusions: Significantly increased levels of cobalt and chromium were released from Cormet 2000 articulations at all time points. Excessive cup abduction was associated with markedly elevated ion levels indicating that accurate cup placement is an important consideration in resurfacing arthroplasty. The significantly increased trace metal levels following resurfacing with the Cormet prosthesis is a concern and warrants further monitoring.

Introduction and Aim: The bone preserving aspect of hip resurfacing combined with minimal wear metal-metal technology is a promising solution for the younger patient who requires a hip replacement. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the early outcomes of patients treated with the Cormet 2000 resurfacing hip prosthesis.

Method: All surgical procedures were performed by a single surgeon (DGA). Thirty-two patients, with a mean age of 52.7 years, were prospectively evaluated pre-operatively and at a minimum of one-year follow-up using standardised questionnaires, physical examinations, and radiographic evaluations.

Results: All patients rated their satisfaction with the procedure as good or excellent. Mean Harris hip scores increased from 51 pre-operatively to 92 at last follow-up. Level of pain and ability to perform activities of daily living were significantly improved compared to pre-operative scores. The mean leg length, offset and neck shaft angle were essentially restored to normal. There were no radiographic abnormalities and no significant clinical complications.

Conclusion: The short-term clinical outcome of the Cormet 2000 hip resurfacing prosthesis has been excellent.