Although hip arthroplasty has been very successful in relieving pain and optimising function, problems have arisen with wear and osteolysis. Highly cross linked polyethylene has been developed to address this problem. The aim of this study was to compare the in vivo wear of standard versus highly cross linked polyethylene (HXLP) in primary total hip arthroplasty at 5-year follow up. Approval was obtained through the Regional Ethics Committee before commencement of the study. 122 patients were enrolled in a prospective, double blinded, randomised trial and followed annually to assess their progress. Annual radiographs were analysed using previously validated edge detection software to assess for 2 dimensional, 3 dimensional and volumetric wear. To reduce the disproportionate effects of bedding in and creep, the initial x-ray used was that taken at 6 months following surgery.Introduction
Methods
