Aims. Isolated acetabular liner exchange with a highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) component is an option to address polyethylene wear and osteolysis following total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the presence of a well-fixed acetabular shell. The liner can be fixed either with the original locking mechanism or by being cemented within the acetabular component. Whether the method used for fixation of the HXLPE liner has any bearing on the long-term outcomes is still unclear. Methods. Data were retrieved for all patients who underwent isolated acetabular component liner exchange surgery with a HXLPE component in our institute between August 2000 and January 2015. Patients were classified according to the fixation method used (original locking mechanism (n = 36) or cemented (n = 50)). Survival and revision rates were compared. A total of 86 revisions were performed and the mean duration of follow-up was 13 years. Results. A total of 20 patients (23.3%) had complications, with dislocation alone being the most common (8.1%; 7/86). Ten patients (11.6%) required re-revision surgery. Cementing the HXLPE liner (8.0%; 4/50) had a higher incidence of re-revision due to acetabular component liner-related complications than using the original locking mechanism (0%; 0/36; p = 0.082). Fixation using the original locking mechanism was associated with re-revision due to acetabular component loosening (8.3%; 3/36), compared to cementing (0%; 0/50; p = 0.038). Overall estimated mean survival was 19.2 years. There was no significant difference in the re-revision rate between the original locking mechanism (11.1%; 4/36) and cementing (12.0%; 6/50; p = 0.899). Using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the revision-free survival of HXLPE fixed with the original locking mechanism and cementing was 94.1% and 93.2%, respectively, at ten years, and 84.7% and 81.3%, respectively, at 20 years (p = 0.840). Conclusion. The re-revision rate and the revision-free survival following acetabular component liner exchange revision surgery using the HXLPE liner were not influenced by the fixation technique used. Both techniques were associated with good survival at a mean follow-up of 13 years. Careful patient selection is necessary for isolated acetabular component liner exchange revision surgery in order to achieve the best outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(5 Supple B):59–65

Aims. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of asymmetric crosslinked polyethylene liner use on the risk of revision of cementless and hybrid total hip arthroplasties (THAs). Methods. We undertook a registry study combining the National Joint Registry dataset with polyethylene manufacturing characteristics as supplied by the manufacturers. The primary endpoint was revision for any reason. We performed further analyses on other reasons including instability, aseptic loosening, wear, and liner dissociation. The primary analytic approach was Cox proportional hazard regression. Results. A total of 213,146 THAs were included in the analysis. Overall, 2,997 revisions were recorded, 1,569 in THAs with a flat liner and 1,428 in THAs using an asymmetric liner. Flat liner THAs had a higher risk of revision for any reason than asymmetric liner THAs when implanted through a Hardinge/anterolateral approach (hazard ratio (HR) 1.169, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.022 to 1.337) and through a posterior approach (HR 1.122, 95% CI 1.108 to 1.346). There was no increased risk of revision for aseptic loosening when asymmetric liners were used for any surgical approach. A separate analysis of the three most frequently used crosslinked polyethylene liners was in agreement with this finding. When analyzing THAs with flat liners only, THAs implanted through a Hardinge/anterolateral approach were associated with a reduced risk of revision for instability compared to posterior approach THAs (HR 0.561 (95% CI 0.446 to 0.706)). When analyzing THAs with an asymmetric liner, there was no significant difference in the risk of revision for instability between the two approaches (HR 0.838 (95% CI 0.633 to 1.110)). Conclusion. For THAs implanted through the posterior approach, the use of asymmetric liners reduces the risk of revision for instability and revision for any reason. In THAs implanted through a Hardinge/anterolateral approach, the use of an asymmetric liner was associated with a reduced risk of revision. The effect on revision for instability was less pronounced than in the posterior approach. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(9):1479–1487

Aims

Mid-level constraint designs for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are intended to reduce coronal plane laxity. Our aims were to compare kinematics and ligament forces of the Zimmer Biomet Persona posterior-stabilized (PS) and mid-level designs in the coronal, sagittal, and axial planes under loads simulating clinical exams of the knee in a cadaver model.

Oxidized zirconium (Oxinium) and highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) were developed with the purpose of minimizing wear, and subsequent osteolysis, in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). However, few articles have been published on long-term results of Oxinium on highly cross-linked polyethylene. The purpose of this investigation is to report minimum 10-year HXLPE wear rates and the clinical outcome of patients in this group and compare this population to a control group of cobalt chrome and ceramic. One hundred forty THAs were performed for 123 patients using an Oxinium head with an HXLPE liner. Ninety-seven had 10 years of clinical follow-up (avg. 14.5). Harris Hip Scores (HHS) were collected preoperatively and at the most recent follow-up. Radiographs of 85 hips were available for a minimum 10-year follow-up (avg. 14.5) and used to calculate wear using PolyWare software. Control groups of cobalt chrome and ceramic articulation on HXLPE with a minimum 10-year follow-up were studied. Clinical follow-up of the Oxinium group showed a statistical improvement compared to preoperative and was similar to the control group of patients. Radiographic evaluation found the linear and volumetric wear rates for the Oxinium group of 0.03 mm/year (range 0.00–0.08) and 3.46 mm. 3. /year (range 1.0 to 15.0) respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in linear or volumetric wear rate between the groups (P-value 0.92 and 0.55 respectively). None of these patients underwent revision of their hip for any reason. Oxinium on highly cross-linked polyethylene has performed exceptionally with wear rates comparable to those of cobalt chrome or ceramic on HXLPE

Aims. Oxidized zirconium (OxZi) and highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) were developed to minimize wear and risk of osteolysis in total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, retrieval studies have shown that scratched femoral heads may lead to runaway wear, and few reports of long-term results have been published. The purpose of this investigation is to report minimum ten-year wear rates and clinical outcomes of THA with OxZi femoral heads on HXLPE, and to compare them with a retrospective control group of cobalt chrome (CoCr) or ceramic heads on HXLPE. Methods. From 2003 to 2006, 108 THAs were performed on 96 patients using an OxZi head with a HXLPE liner with minimum ten-year follow-up. Harris Hip Scores (HHS) were collected preoperatively and at the most recent follow-up (mean 13.3 years). Linear and volumetric liner wear was measured on radiographs of 85 hips with a minimum ten-year follow-up (mean 14.5 years). This was compared to a retrospective control group of 45 THAs using ceramic or CoCr heads from October 1999 to February 2005, with a minimum of ten years’ follow-up. Results. Average HHS improved from 50.8 to 91.9 and 51.0 to 89.8 in the OxZi group and control group, respectively (p = 0.644), with no osteolysis in either group. Linear and volumetric wear rates in the OxZi group averaged 0.03 mm/year and 3.46 mm. 3. /year, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in HHS scores, nor in linear or volumetric wear rate between the groups, and no revision for any indication. Conclusion. The radiological and clinical outcomes, and survivorship of THA with OxZi femoral heads and HXLPE liners, were excellent, and comparable to CoCr or ceramic heads at minimum ten-year follow-up. Wear rates are below what would be expected for development of osteolysis. OxZi-HXLPE is a durable bearing couple with excellent long-term outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3 Supple A):38–43

Aims. Micromotion of the polyethylene (PE) inlay may contribute to backside PE wear in addition to articulate wear of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Using radiostereometric analysis (RSA) with tantalum beads in the PE inlay, we evaluated PE micromotion and its relationship to PE wear. Methods. A total of 23 patients with a mean age of 83 years (77 to 91), were available from a RSA study on cemented TKA with Maxim tibial components (Zimmer Biomet). PE inlay migration, PE wear, tibial component migration, and the anatomical knee axis were evaluated on weightbearing stereoradiographs. PE inlay wear was measured as the deepest penetration of the femoral component into the PE inlay. Results. At mean six years’ follow-up, the PE wear rate was 0.08 mm/year (95% confidence interval 0.06 to 0.09 mm/year). PE inlay external rotation was below the precision limit and did not influence PE wear. Varus knee alignment did not influence PE wear (p = 0.874), but increased tibial component total translation (p = 0.041). Conclusion. The PE inlay was well fixed and there was no relationship between PE stability and PE wear. The PE wear rate was low and similar in the medial and lateral compartments. Varus knee alignment did not influence PE wear. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(5):226–236

The benefits of HXLPE in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have not been as evident as total hip arthroplasty (THA). A systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the impact of highly-crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) on TKA outcomes compared to conventional polyethylene (CPE) is described. All studies comparing HXLPE with CPE for primary TKA were included for analysis. The minimum dataset included revision rates, indication for revision, aseptic component loosening and follow-up time. The primary outcome variables were all-cause revision, aseptic revision, revision for loosening, radiographic component loosening, osteolysis and incidence of radiolucent lines. Secondary outcome measures included postoperative functional knee scores. A random-effects meta-analysis allowing for all missing data was performed for all primary outcome variables. Six studies met the inclusion criteria. In total, there were 2,234 knees (1,105 HXLPE and 1,129 CPE). The combined mean follow-up for all studies was 6 years. The aseptic revision rate in the HXLPE group was 1.02% compared to 1.97% in the CPE group. There was no difference in the rate of all-cause revision (p = 0.131), aseptic revision (p = 0.298) or revision for component loosening (p = 0.206) between the two groups. Radiographic loosening (p = 0.200), radiolucent lines (p = 0.123) and osteolysis (p = 0.604) was similar between both groups. Functional outcomes were similar between groups. The use of HXLPE in TKA yields similar results for clinical and radiographic outcomes when compared to CPE at midterm follow-up. HXLPE does not confer the same advantages to TKA as seen in THA

Aims. The primary objective of this study was to compare the five-year tibial component migration and wear between highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) inserts and conventional polyethylene (PE) inserts of the uncemented Triathlon fixed insert cruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Secondary objectives included clinical outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Methods. A double-blinded, randomized study was conducted including 96 TKAs. Tibial component migration and insert wear were measured with radiostereometric analysis (RSA) at three, six, 12, 24, and 60 months postoperatively. PROMS were collected preoperatively and at all follow-up timepoints. Results. There was no clinically relevant difference in terms of tibial component migration, insert wear, and PROMs between the HXLPE and PE groups. The mean difference in tibial component migration (maximal total point migration (MTPM)) was 0.02 mm (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.07 to 0.11), which is below the value of 0.2 mm considered to be clinically relevant. Wear after five years for HXLPE was 0.16 mm (95% CI 0.05 to 0.27), and for PE was 0.23 mm (95% CI 0.12 to 0.35). The mean difference in wear rate was 0.01 mm/year (95% CI -0.02 to 0.05) in favour of the HXLPE group. Wear is mainly present on the medial side of the insert. Conclusion. There is no clinically relevant difference in tibial component migration and insert wear for up to five years between the HXLPE conventional PE inserts. For the implant studied, the potential advantages of a HXLPE insert remain to be proven under clinical conditions at longer-term follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(5):518–525

Aims. The purpose of this study was to assess mid-term survivorship following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with Optetrak Logic components and identify the most common revision indications at a single institution. Methods. We identified a retrospective cohort of 7,941 Optetrak primary TKAs performed from January 2010 to December 2018. We reviewed the intraoperative findings of 369 TKAs that required revision TKA from January 2010 to December 2021 and the details of the revision implants used. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine survivorship. Cox regression analysis was used to examine the impact of patient variables and year of implantation on survival time. Results. The estimated survivorship free of all-cause revision was 98% (95% confidence interval (CI) 97% to 98%), 95% (95% CI 95% to 96%), and 86% (95% CI 83% to 88%) at two, five, and ten years, respectively. In 209/369 revisions there was a consistent constellation of findings with varying severity that included polyethylene wear and associated synovitis, osteolysis, and component loosening. This failure mode, which we refer to as aseptic mechanical failure, was the most common revision indication. The mean time from primary TKA to revision for aseptic mechanical failure was five years (5 months to 11 years). Conclusion. In this series of nearly 8,000 primary TKAs performed with a specific implant, we identified a lower-than-expected mid-term survivorship and a high number of revisions with a unique presentation. This study, along with the recent recall of the implant, confirms the need for frequent monitoring of patients with Optetrak TKAs given the incidence of polyethylene failure, osteolysis, and component loosening. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(3):277–283

Aims. The use of cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) components has increased during the past decade. The initial design of cementless metal-backed patellar components had shown high failure rates due to many factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical results of a second-generation cementless, metal-backed patellar component of a modern design. Methods. This was a retrospective review of 707 primary TKAs in 590 patients from a single institution, using a cementless, metal-backed patellar component with a mean follow-up of 6.9 years (2 to 12). A total of 409 TKAs were performed in 338 females and 298 TKAs in 252 males. The mean age of the patients was 63 years (34 to 87) and their mean BMI was 34.3 kg/m. 2. (18.8 to 64.5). The patients were chosen to undergo a cementless procedure based on age and preoperative radiological and intraoperative bone quality. Outcome was assessed using the Knee Society knee and function scores and range of motion (ROM), complications, and revisions. Results. A total of 24 TKAs (3.4%) in 24 patients failed and required revision surgery, of which five were due to patellar complications (0.71%): one for aseptic patellar loosening (0.14%) and four for polyethylene dissociation (0.57%). A total of 19 revisions (2.7%) were undertaken in 19 patients for indications which did not relate to the patella: four for aseptic tibial loosening (0.57%), one for aseptic femoral loosening (0.14%), nine for periprosthetic infection (1.3%), one for popliteus impingement (0.14%), and four for instability (0.57%). Knee Society knee and function scores, and ROM, improved significantly when comparing pre- and postoperative values. Survival of the metal-backed patellar component for all-cause failure was 97.5% (95% confidence interval 94.9% to 100%) at 12 years. Conclusion. The second-generation cementless TKA design of metal-backed patellar components showed a 97.5% survival at 12 years, with polyethylene dissociation from the metal-backing being the most common cause of patellar failure. In view of the increased use of TKA, especially in younger, more active, or obese patients, these findings are encouraging at mean follow-up of seven years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(12):1279–1285

Aims. Implant waste during total hip arthroplasty (THA) represents a significant cost to the USA healthcare system. While studies have explored methods to improve THA cost-effectiveness, the literature comparing the proportions of implant waste by intraoperative technology used during THA is limited. The aims of this study were to: 1) examine whether the use of enabling technologies during THA results in a smaller proportion of wasted implants compared to navigation-guided and conventional manual THA; 2) determine the proportion of wasted implants by implant type; and 3) examine the effects of surgeon experience on rates of implant waste by technology used. Methods. We identified 104,420 implants either implanted or wasted during 18,329 primary THAs performed on 16,724 patients between January 2018 and June 2022 at our institution. THAs were separated by technology used: robotic-assisted (n = 4,171), imageless navigation (n = 6,887), and manual (n = 7,721). The primary outcome of interest was the rate of implant waste during primary THA. Results. Robotic-assisted THA resulted in a lower proportion (1.5%) of implant waste compared to navigation-guided THA (2.0%) and manual THA (1.9%) (all p < 0.001). Both navigated and manual THA were more likely to waste acetabular shells (odds ratio (OR) 4.5 vs 3.1) and polyethylene liners (OR 2.2 vs 2.0) compared to robotic-assisted THA after adjusting for demographic and perioperative factors, such as surgeon experience (p < 0.001). While implant waste decreased with increasing experience for procedures performed manually (p < 0.001) or with navigation (p < 0.001), waste rates for robotic-assisted THA did not differ based on surgical experience. Conclusion. Robotic-assisted THAs wasted a smaller proportion of acetabular shells and polyethylene liners than navigation-guided and manual THAs. Individual implant waste rates vary depending on the type of technology used intraoperatively. Future studies on implant waste during THA should examine reasons for non-implantation in order to better understand and develop methods for cost-saving. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(8):715–720

Aims. Robotic arm-assisted surgery offers accurate and reproducible guidance in component positioning and assessment of soft-tissue tensioning during knee arthroplasty, but the feasibility and early outcomes when using this technology for revision surgery remain unknown. The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of robotic arm-assisted revision of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) versus primary robotic arm-assisted TKA at short-term follow-up. Methods. This prospective study included 16 patients undergoing robotic arm-assisted revision of UKA to TKA versus 35 matched patients receiving robotic arm-assisted primary TKA. In all study patients, the following data were recorded: operating time, polyethylene liner size, change in haemoglobin concentration (g/dl), length of inpatient stay, postoperative complications, and hip-knee-ankle (HKA) alignment. All procedures were performed using the principles of functional alignment. At most recent follow-up, range of motion (ROM), Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), and Oxford Knee Score (OKS) were collected. Mean follow-up time was 21 months (6 to 36). Results. There were no differences between the two treatment groups with regard to mean change in haemoglobin concentration (p = 0.477), length of stay (LOS, p = 0.172), mean polyethylene thickness (p = 0.065), or postoperative complication rates (p = 0.295). At the most recent follow-up, the primary robotic arm-assisted TKA group had a statistically significantly improved OKS compared with the revision UKA to TKA group (44.6 (SD 2.7) vs 42.3 (SD 2.5); p = 0.004) but there was no difference in the overall ROM (p = 0.056) or FJS between the two treatment groups (86.1 (SD 9.6) vs 84.1 (4.9); p = 0.439). Conclusion. Robotic arm-assisted revision of UKA to TKA was associated with comparable intraoperative blood loss, early postoperative rehabilitation, functional outcomes, and complications to primary robotic TKA at short-term follow-up. Robotic arm-assisted surgery offers a safe and reproducible technique for revising failed UKA to TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(7):680–687

Aims. The use of vitamin E-infused highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) in total knee prostheses is controversial. In this paper we have compared the clinical and radiological results between conventional polyethylene and vitamin E-infused HXLPE inserts in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients and Methods. The study included 200 knees (175 patients) that underwent TKA using the same total knee prostheses. In all, 100 knees (77 patients) had a vitamin E-infused HXLPE insert (study group) and 100 knees (98 patients) had a conventional polyethylene insert (control group). There were no significant differences in age, sex, diagnosis, preoperative knee range of movement (ROM), and preoperative Knee Society Score (KSS) between the two groups. Clinical and radiological results were evaluated at two years postoperatively. Results. Differences in postoperative ROM and KSS were not statistically significant between the study and control groups. No knee exhibited osteolysis, aseptic loosening, or polyethylene failure. Additionally, there was no significant difference in the incidence of a radiolucent line between the two groups. One patient from the study group required irrigation and debridement, due to deep infection, at six months postoperatively. Conclusion. Clinical results were comparable between vitamin E-infused HXLPE inserts and conventional polyethylene inserts at two years after TKA, without any significant clinical failure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:559–564

Vitamin E-doped cross-linked polyethylene (VEPE) has encouraged the use of larger heads in thinner liners in total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, there are concerns about wear and mechanical failure of the thin liner, especially when metal heads are used. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate if the use of a large metal head in a thin VEPE liner would increase polyethylene wear compared with a standard 32-mm metal head and to compare periacetabular radiolucencies and patient-reported outcomes in THA. 96 candidates for uncemented THA were randomly allocated to either the largest possible metal head (36–44 mm) that could be fitted in the thinnest available VEPE liner (intervention group) or a standard 32-mm metal head (control group). The primary outcome was proximal head penetration (PHP) measured with model-based radiostereometric analysis (RSA). Secondary outcomes were periacetabular radiolucencies and patient-reported outcomes. The mid-term results of the trial at 5 years are presented. Median total PHP (interquartile range) was -0.04 mm (−0.12 to 0.02) in the intervention group and -0.03 mm (=0.14 to 0.05) in the control group (p=0.691). The rates of periacetabular radiolucencies were 1/44 and 4/42 (p=0.197), respectively. Patient-reported hip function and health-related quality of life did not differ between the groups, but participants in the intervention group reported a higher level of activity (median UCLA rank 7 vs 6, p=0.020). There were 5 revisions caused by dislocations (2), periprosthetic fracture (1), stem subsidence (1), or iliopsoas impingement (1). Large metal heads in thin VEPE liners did not increase liner wear and were not associated with liner failure 5 years after THA

Aims. A significant reduction in wear at five and ten years was previously reported when comparing Durasul highly cross-linked polyethylene with nitrogen-sterilized Sulene polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty (THA). We investigated whether the improvement observed at the earlier follow-up continued, resulting in decreased osteolysis and revision surgery rates over the second decade. Methods. Between January 1999 and December 2001, 90 patients underwent surgery using the same acetabular and femoral components with a 28 mm metallic femoral head and either a Durasul or Sulene liner. A total of 66 hips of this prospective randomized study were available for a minimum follow-up of 20 years. The linear femoral head penetration rate was measured at six weeks, one year, and annually thereafter, using the Dorr method on digitized radiographs with a software package. Results. In the Durasul group, no patients underwent revision due to loosening or showed radiological evidence of osteolysis. In the Sulene group, four patients (four hips) were revised due to femoral component loosening. The 20-year cumulative failure incidence in the presence of the competing event of death for revision surgery was 4.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8 to 13.6) in the Durasul group, and 8.9% (95% CI 2.8 to 19.5) in the Sulene group. The mean wear one year after surgery was 0.09 mm (SD 0.007) in the Durasul group and 0.24 (SD 0.015) in the Sulene group (p < 0.001). From one to 20 years after surgery, the mean total penetration was 0.32 mm (SD 0.045) in the Durasul group and 1.07 mm (SD 0.13) in the Sulene group (p < 0.001). Mean femoral head penetration at 20 years was approximately 70.0% less in the Durasul group than the Sulene group. Conclusion. The significant reduction in femoral head penetration obtained with the Durasul compared with Sulene in uncemented THA resulted in lower osteolysis and revision rates after 20 years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(9):1032–1038

Aims. Transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) plays a major role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases in all organ systems. Despite its importance, NF-κB targeted drug therapy to mitigate chronic inflammation has had limited success in preclinical studies. We hypothesized that sex differences affect the response to NF-κB treatment during chronic inflammation in bone. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) during chronic inflammation in male and female mice. Methods. We used a murine model of chronic inflammation induced by continuous intramedullary delivery of lipopolysaccharide-contaminated polyethylene particles (cPE) using an osmotic pump. Specimens were evaluated using micro-CT and histomorphometric analyses. Sex-specific osteogenic and osteoclastic differentiation potentials were also investigated in vitro, including alkaline phosphatase, Alizarin Red, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, and gene expression using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results. Local delivery of NF-κB decoy ODN in vivo increased osteogenesis in males, but not females, in the presence of chronic inflammation induced by cPE. Bone resorption activity was decreased in both sexes. In vitro osteogenic and osteoclastic differentiation assays during inflammatory conditions did not reveal differences among the groups. Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa Β ligand (Rankl) gene expression by osteoblasts was significantly decreased only in males when treated with ODN. Conclusion. We demonstrated that NF-κB decoy ODN increased osteogenesis in male mice and decreased bone resorption activity in both sexes in preclinical models of chronic inflammation. NF-κB signalling could be a therapeutic target for chronic inflammatory diseases involving bone, especially in males. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(1):28–39

The purpose of this study was to compare oxinium versus metal-on-polyethylene wear in two consecutive prospective randomized series of low friction total hip arthroplasty at a minimum 10-year follow-up. A total of 100 patients with a median age of 60.9 years were randomized to receive either oxinium (50 hips) or metal (50 hips) femoral head. The polyethylene socket was EtO sterilized in the first 50 patients, whereas it was highly cross-linked and remelted (XLPE) in the following 50 patients. The primary criterion for evaluation was linear head penetration measurement using the Martell system by an investigator blinded to the material. Also, a survivorship analysis was performed using wear related loosening revised or not as the end point. Complete data were available for analysis in 40 hips at a median follow-up of 12.9 years (11 to 14), and in 36 hips at a median follow-up of 12.3 years (10 to 13) in the EtO sterilized and XLPE series, respectively. In the EtO sterilized series, the mean steady-state wear rate was 0.245 ± 0.080 mm/year in the oxinium group versus 0.186 ± 0.062 mm/year in the metal group (p = 0.009). In the XLPE series, the mean steady-state wear rate was 0.037±0.016 mm/year in the oxinium group versus 0.036±0.015 mm/year in the metal group (p = 0.94). The survival rate at 10 years was 100% in both XLPE series, whereas it was 82.9% (IC 95%, 65–100) and 70.5% (IC95%, 50.1–90.9) in the metal-EtO and oxinium-EtO series, respectively. This RCT demonstrated that up to 14-year follow-up, wear was significantly reduced when using XLPE, irrespective of the femoral head material. Also, no osteolysis related complication was observed in the XLPE series. In the current study, oxinium femoral heads showed no advantage over metal heads and therefore their continued used should be questioned related to their cost

The purpose of the study was to compare the mechanical properties, oxidation and wear resistance of a vitamin E blended and moderately crosslinked polyethylene for total knee arthroplasty (MXE) in comparison with clinically established polyethylene materials. The following polyethylene materials were tested: CPE (30 kGy e-beam sterilized), XLPE (75 kGy gamma crosslinked @ 100°C), ViXLPE (0.1 % vitamin E blended, 80 kGy e-beam crosslinked @ 100°C), and MXE (0.1 % vitamin E blended polyethylene, 30 kGy gamma sterilized). For the different tests, the polyethylene materials were either unaged or artificially aged for two or six weeks according to ASTM F2003-02. The oxidation index was measured based on ASTM F2102 at a 1 mm depth. Small punch testing was performed based on ASTM F2977. Mechanical properties were measured on unaged materials according to ASTM D638. Wear simulation was performed on a load controlled 3 + 1 station knee wear simulator (EndoLab GmbH, Thansau, Germany) capable of reproducing loads and movement of highly demanding activities (HDA) as well as ISO 14243-1 load profiles. The load profiles were applied for 5 million cycles (mc) or delamination of the polyethylene components. Medium size AS e.motion. ®. PS Pro (Aesculap AG, Tuttlingen, Germany) femoral and tibial components with a ZrN-multilayer surface, as well as Columbus. ®. CR cobalt-chrome alloy femoral and tibial components were tested. Particle analysis was performed on the serum samples of the ISO 14243-1 wear simulations based on ISO 17853:2011 and ASTM F1877. The analysis of the mechanical properties show that moderately crosslinked polyethylene (MXE) might be a superior material for total knee arthroplasty applications [Schwiesau et al. 2021]. The addition of vitamin E in a moderately crosslinked polyethylene prevented its oxidation, kept its mechanical characteristics, and maintained a low wear, even under a HDA knee wear simulation

Aims. This study investigates head-neck taper corrosion with varying head size in a novel hip simulator instrumented to measure corrosion related electrical activity under torsional loads. Methods. In all, six 28 mm and six 36 mm titanium stem-cobalt chrome head pairs with polyethylene sockets were tested in a novel instrumented hip simulator. Samples were tested using simulated gait data with incremental increasing loads to determine corrosion onset load and electrochemical activity. Half of each head size group were then cycled with simulated gait and the other half with gait compression only. Damage was measured by area and maximum linear wear depth. Results. Overall, 36 mm heads had lower corrosion onset load (p = 0.009) and change in open circuit potential (OCP) during simulated gait with (p = 0.006) and without joint movement (p = 0.004). Discontinuing gait’s joint movement decreased corrosion currents (p = 0.042); however, wear testing showed no significant effect of joint movement on taper damage. In addition, 36 mm heads had greater corrosion area (p = 0.050), but no significant difference was found for maximum linear wear depth (p = 0.155). Conclusion. Larger heads are more susceptible to taper corrosion; however, not due to frictional torque as hypothesized. An alternative hypothesis of taper flexural rigidity differential is proposed. Further studies are necessary to investigate the clinical significance and underlying mechanism of this finding. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(11):1004–1016

Abstract. Cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the younger patient has historically been associated with higher wear and revision rates. We carried out a retrospective study of a prospectively collected database of patients at Wrightington hospital undergoing cemented THA under 55 years of age to determine acetabular wear and revision rates. Between August 2005 and December 2021 a cohort of 110 patients, 56 males and 54 females, underwent Cemented Total Hip Replacement through a posterior approach. Mean age at operation was 50yrs (35–55). The mean follow up was 6 years 9 months (0–16 years). 3 patients were lost to follow-up. Of the remaining 107 patients, Conventional and cross lined polyethylene were used in 54 and 53 patients respectively. Ceramic heads were used in 102 patients. 22.225mm and 28mm heads were used in 60 and 47 patients respectively. Clinical outcomes were assessed by Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scores which showed significant functional improvement. Linear wear was measured on plain radiographs using TRAUMA CAD and cup loosening was assessed by classification of Hodgkinson et al. No cases were revised during the observed follow up period. The mean wear rate in conventional and crosslinked polyethylene cups were 2.31mm (0.1–4.6) and 1.02mm (0.1–2.6) respectively. Cemented THA with both conventional and crosslinked polyethylene provides excellent survival rates in adults under the age of 55 years and crosslinked polyethylene may further improve these results due to improved wear rates

Aims. Uncemented metal acetabular components show good osseointegration, but material stiffness causes stress shielding and retroacetabular bone loss. Cemented monoblock polyethylene components load more physiologically; however, the cement bone interface can suffer fibrous encapsulation and loosening. It was hypothesized that an uncemented titanium-sintered monoblock polyethylene component may offer the optimum combination of osseointegration and anatomical loading. Methods. A total of 38 patients were prospectively enrolled and received an uncemented monoblock polyethylene acetabular (pressfit) component. This single cohort was then retrospectively compared with previously reported randomized cohorts of cemented monoblock (cemented) and trabecular metal (trabecular) acetabular implants. The primary outcome measure was periprosthetic bone density using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry over two years. Secondary outcomes included radiological and clinical analysis. Results. Although there were differences in the number of males and females in each group, no significant sex bias was noted (p = 0.080). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in age (p = 0.910) or baseline lumbar bone mineral density (BMD) (p = 0.998) found between any of the groups (pressfit, cemented, or trabecular). The pressfit implant initially behaved like the trabecular component with an immediate fall in BMD in the inferior and medial regions, with preserved BMD laterally, suggesting lateral rim loading. However, the pressfit component subsequently showed a reversal in BMD medially with recovery back towards baseline, and a continued rise in lateral BMD. This would suggest that the pressfit component begins to reload the medial bone over time, more akin to the cemented component. Analysis of postoperative radiographs revealed no pressfit component subsidence or movement up to two years postoperatively (100% interobserver reliability). Medial defects seen immediately postoperatively in five cases had completely resolved by two years in four patients. Conclusion. Initially, the uncemented monoblock component behaved similarly to the rigid trabecular metal component with lateral rim loading; however, over two years this changed to more closely resemble the loading pattern of a cemented polyethylene component with increasing medial pelvic loading. This indicates that the uncemented monoblock acetabular component may result in optimized fixation and preservation of retroacetabular bone stock. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):872–880

Introduction and Aims: To determine whether polyethylene wear is different comparing cemented polyethylene cups with metal-backed cups and a polyethylene insert. Method: A sample of patients who had hip replacements between February 1995 and July 2002 have been studied. They were randomly allocated to either a cemented polyethylene cup or a metal-backed press-fit cup and polyethylene insert. All patients had a cemented stem and a 28mm ceramic head inserted. Ninety-one patients were treated, and 83 are available for analysis. The pre-operative diagnosis in all was unilateral osteoarthritis. The trial is a prospective randomised one and patients have been assessed clinically and radiologically annually. Twenty-eight patients with cemented polyethylene cups and 55 patients with uncemented metal-backed cups have been analysed. The polyethylene thickness of the cemented cups is 9.6mm on average, and the metal-backed cups had an average liner thickness of 8.9mm. Wear measurements were done using the Martell computer system. Results: Based on measurements done on acetabular cups with the longest follow-up, the metal-backed cups have an average wear of 0.65mm, with an annual wear rate of 0.14mm. The cemented cups have an average wear of 0.64mm, with an annual average of 0.12mm. The study is ongoing and data will be updated. Conclusion: Wear measurements were done using the three-month post-operative x-ray as the baseline and the most recent follow-up x-ray. Based on measurements done on cups with the longest follow-up, there is very little difference between the two groups. The study is ongoing and data will be updated

Aims. Highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) has greatly improved the durability of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in young patients because of its improved wear characteristics. Few studies have followed this population into the second decade, and therefore the purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the clinical outcome for THA patients 50 years of age and younger at a minimum of 15 years postoperatively. The second purpose was to evaluate the radiological findings secondary to wear or mechanical failure of the implant. Methods. Between October 1999 and December 2005, 105 THAs were performed in 95 patients (53 female, 42 male) aged 50 years and younger (mean 42 years (20 to 50)). There were 87 patients (96 hips) that were followed for a minimum of 15 years (mean 17.3 years (15 to 21)) for analysis. Posterior approach was used with cementless fixation with a median head size of 28 mm. HXLPE was the acetabular bearing for all hips. Radiographs were evaluated for polyethylene wear, radiolucent lines, and osteolysis. Results. Clinical outcomes showed significant improvement of mean Harris Hip Scores from 52.8 (SD 13.5) preoperatively to 94.8 (SD 7.6) postoperatively. One hip was revised for recurrent instability, and there were no infections. No hips were revised for mechanical loosening or osteolysis. Mean polyethylene linear wear was 0.04 mm/year and volumetric wear was 6.22 mm. 3. /year, with no significant differences between head size or material. Osteolysis was not present in any of the hips. Conclusion. The use of HXLPE in THA for patients aged 50 years and younger has performed exceptionally well without evidence of significant wear causing mechanical loosening or necessitating revision. The radiolucent lines of the acetabular component must be followed to determine the prognostic significance. This investigation represents the longest clinical follow-up of a large, consecutive cohort of patients aged 50 years or younger with THA using HXLPE. This long-term analysis found negligible polyethylene wear, no incidence of aseptic loosening, and excellent clinical outcomes at and beyond 15 years of follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):78–83

Aims. Vitamin E-infused highly cross-linked polyethylene (E1) has recently been introduced in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). An in vitro wear simulator study showed that E1 reduced polyethylene wear. However there is no published information regarding in vivo wear. Previous reports suggest that newly introduced materials which reduce in vitro polyethylene wear do not necessarily reduce in vivo polyethylene wear. To assist in the evaluation of the newly introduced material before widespread use, we established an in vivo polyethylene wear particle analysis for TKA. The aim of this study was to compare in vivo polyethylene wear particle generation between E1 and conventional polyethylene (ArCom) in TKA. Methods. A total of 34 knees undergoing TKA (17 each with ArCom or E1) were investigated. Except for the polyethylene insert material, the prostheses used for both groups were identical. Synovial fluid was obtained at a mean of 3.4 years (SD 1.3) postoperatively. The in vivo polyethylene wear particles were isolated from the synovial fluid using a previously validated method and examined by scanning electron microscopy. Results. The total number of polyethylene wear particles obtained from the knees with E1 (mean 6.9, SD 4.0 × 10. 7. counts/knee) was greater than that obtained from those with ArCom (mean 2.2, SD 2.6 × 10. 7. counts/knee) (p = 0.001). The particle size (equivalent circle of diameter) from the knees with E1 was smaller (mean 0.5 μm, SD 0.1) than that of knees with ArCom (mean 1.5, SD 0.3 μm) (p = 0.001). The aspect ratio of particles from the knees with E1 (mean 1.3, SD 0.1) was smaller than that with ArCom (mean 1.4, SD 0.1) (p < 0.001 ). Conclusion. This is the first report of in vivo wear particle analysis of E1. E1 polyethylene did not reduce the number of in vivo polyethylene wear particles compared with ArCom in early clinical stage. Further careful follow-up of newly introduced E1 for TKA should be carried out. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1527–1534

The 2021 Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry report indicated that total shoulder replacement using both mid head (TMH) length humeral components and reverse arthroplasty (RTSA) had a lower revision rate than stemmed humeral components in anatomical total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA) - for all prosthesis types and diagnoses. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of component variables in the various primary total arthroplasty alternatives for osteoarthritis in the shoulder. Data from a large national arthroplasty registry were analysed for the period April 2004 to December 2020. The study population included all primary aTSA, RTSA, and TMH shoulder arthroplasty procedures undertaken for osteoarthritis (OA) using either cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) or non-cross-linked polyethylene (non XLPE). Due to the previously documented and reported higher revision rate compared to other anatomical total shoulder replacement options, those using a cementless metal backed glenoid components were excluded. The rate of revision was determined by Kaplan-Meir estimates, with comparisons by Cox proportional hazard models. Reasons for revision were also assessed. For a primary diagnosis of OA, aTSA with a cemented XLPE glenoid component had the lowest revision rate with a 12-year cumulative revision rate of 4.7%, compared to aTSA with cemented non-XLPE glenoid component of 8.7%, and RTSA of 6.8%. The revision rate for TMH was lower than aTSA with cemented non-XLPE, but was similar to the other implants at the same length of follow-up. The reason for revision for cemented aTSR was most commonly component loosening, not rotator cuff deficiency. Long stem humeral components matched with XLPE in aTSA achieve a lower revision rate compared to shorter stems, long stems with conventional polyethylene, and RTSA when used to treat shoulder OA. In all these cohorts, loosening, not rotator cuff failure was the most common diagnosis for revision

Dual Mobility (DM) Total Hip Replacements (THRs) were introduced to reduce dislocation risk, which is the most common cause of early revision. The in-vivo mechanics of these implants is not well understood, despite their increased use in both elective and trauma settings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to comprehensively assess retrieved DM polyethylene liners for signs of damage using visual inspection and semi-quantitative geometric assessment techniques. Retrieved DM liners (n=20) were visually inspected for the presence of seven established modes of polyethylene damage. If embedded debris was identified on the external surface, its material composition was characterised using energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX). Additionally, each liner was geometrically assessed for signs of wear/deformation using a validated methodology. Visual inspection of the liners revealed that scratching and pitting were the most common damage modes on either surface. Burnishing was observed on 50% and 15% of the internal and external surfaces, respectively. In addition, embedded debris was identified on 25% of the internal and 65% of the external surfaces. EDX analysis of the debris identified several materials including iron, titanium, cobalt-chrome, and tantalum. Geometric analysis demonstrated highly variable damage patterns across the liners. The results of this study provide insight into the in-vivo mechanics of DM bearings. For example, the results suggest that the internal bearing (i.e., between the head and liner) acts as the primary articulation site for DM-THRs as evidenced by a higher incidence of burnishing and larger, more concentrated regions of penetration across the liners’ internal surfaces. Furthermore, circumferential, and crescent-shaped damage patterns were identified on the articulating surfaces of the liners thus providing evidence that these components can rotate within the acetabular shell with varying degrees of mobility. The mechanics of DM bearings are complex and may be influenced by several factors (e.g., soft tissue fibrosis, patient activities) and thus further investigation is warranted. Finally, the results of this study suggest that DM liners may be susceptible to ex-vivo surface damage and thus caution is advised when handling and/or assessing these types of components

The aim of this study was to measure polyethylene wear in uncemented metal-backed cups and compare it with cemented ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene cups in a controlled double-blind study. The study group was made up of 91 patients aged 50 to 70 years undergoing THR for unilateral OA of the hip between February 1995 and July 2002. The male to female ratio was 40:60. In all patients, a cemented stem and 28-mm ceramic head was inserted, using a third-generation cementing technique and UHMW polyethylene. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either a cemented or uncemented acetabular cup. Eight patients were lost to follow-up. Cemented cups were used in 28 patients (mean age 64 years). The mean thickness of the polyethylene was 9.6 mm (7.5 to 12.5). The mean liner thickness in the metal-backed cups was 8.9 mm (7 to 12.2). In measuring wear, baseline 3-month postoperative radiographs were compared with the most recent follow-up radiographs and Martell software was used. The polyethylene in metal-backed cups had a mean wear rate of 0.49 mm at 4.7 years, with a mean annual wear rate of 0.12 mm. The cemented polyethylene cups had a mean wear rate of 0.45 mm at 5.3 years, with a mean annual wear rate of 0.11 mm. The study is ongoing. Currently we conclude that there is no significant difference in the annual wear rate of polyethylene in uncemented metal-backed cups and cemented cups

Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the migration of the femoral component, five years postoperatively, between patients with a highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) insert and those with a conventional polyethylene (PE) insert in an uncemented Triathlon fixed insert cruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Secondary aims included clinical outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). We have previously reported the migration and outcome of the tibial components in these patients. Methods. A double-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted including 96 TKAs. The migration of the femoral component was measured with radiostereometry (RSA) at three and six months and one, two, and five years postoperatively. PROMs were collected preoperatively and at all periods of follow-up. Results. There was no clinically relevant difference in terms of migration of the femoral component or PROMs between the HXLPE and PE groups. The mean difference in migration (maximum total point motion), five years postopeatively, was 0.04 mm (95% CI -0.06 to 0.16) in favour of the PE group. Conclusion. There was no clinically relevant difference in migration of the femoral component, for up to five years between the two groups. These findings will help to establish a benchmark for future studies on migration of femoral components in TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(8):826–833

Aims. The primary outcome was investigating differences in wear, as measured by femoral head penetration, between cross-linked vitamin E-diffused polyethylene (vE-PE) and cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) acetabular component liners and between 32 and 36 mm head sizes at the ten-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes included acetabular component migration and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) such as the EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire, 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey, Harris Hip Score, and University of California, Los Angeles Activity Scale (UCLA). Methods. A single-blinded, multi-arm, 2 × 2 factorial randomized controlled trial was undertaken. Patients were recruited between May 2009 and April 2011. Radiostereometric analyses (RSAs) were performed from baseline to ten years. Of the 220 eligible patients, 116 underwent randomization, and 82 remained at the ten-year follow-up. Eligible patients were randomized into one of four interventions: vE-PE acetabular liner with either 32 or 36 mm femoral head, and XLPE acetabular liner with either 32 or 36 mm femoral head. Parameters were otherwise identical except for acetabular liner material and femoral head size. Results. A total of 116 patients participated, of whom 77 were male. The median ages of the vE-PE 32 mm and 36 mm groups were 65 (interquartile range (IQR) 57 to 67) and 63 years (IQR 56 to 66), respectively, and of the XLPE 32 mm and 36 mm groups were 64 (IQR 58 to 66) and 61 years (IQR 54 to 66), respectively. Mean total head penetration was significantly lower into vE-PE acetabular liner groups than into XLPE acetabular liner groups (-0.219 mm (95% confidence interval -0.348 to -0.090); p = 0.001). There were no differences in wear according to head size, acetabular component migration, or PROMs, except for UCLA. There were no cases of aseptic loosening or failures requiring revision at long-term follow-up. Conclusion. Significantly lower wear was observed in vE-PE acetabular liners than in XLPE acetabular liners. No difference in wear was observed between different head size or PROMs except for the UCLA at ten years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(10):1052–1059

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of first-generation annealed highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) in cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods. We retrospectively evaluated 29 patients (35 hips) who underwent THA between December 2000 and February 2002. The survival rate was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Hip joint function was evaluated using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score. Two-dimensional polyethylene wear was estimated using Martell’s Hip Analysis Suite. We calculated the wear rates between years 1 and 5, 5 and 10, 10 and 15, and 15 and final follow-up. Results. The mean follow-up period was 19.1 years (SD 0.6; 17.3 to 20.1). The 19-year overall survival rate with the end point of all-cause revision was 97.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 91 to 100). The mean JOA score improved from 43.2 (SD 10.6; 30 to 76) before surgery to 90.2 (SD 6.4; 76 to 98) at the final follow-up (p < 0.001). There was no osteolysis or loosening of the acetabular or femoral components. The overall steady-state wear rate was 0.013 mm/year (SD 0.012). There was no hip with a steady-state wear rate of > 0.1 mm/year. There was no significant difference in wear rates for each period. We found no significant correlation between the wear rate and age, body weight, BMI, or cup inclination. Conclusion. First-generation annealed HXLPE shows excellent wear resistance and no acceleration of wear for approximately 20 years, with low all-cause revision rates. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(2):200–205

Abstract. Objectives. Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) can be made radiopaque through the diffusion of an oil-based contrast agent (Lipiodol Ultra-fluid). A similar process is used for Vitamin E incorporated polyethylene, which has a well-established clinical history. This study aimed to quantify the leaching of Lipiodol and compare to vitamin E polyethylene. Method. GUR 1050 polyethylene (4 mm thickness) was cut into squares, 10 mm. 2. Samples (n=5) were immersed in 25 ml Lipiodol (Guerbet, France), or 15 ml Vitamin E (L-atocopherol, Sigma-Aldrich, UK). To facilitate diffusion, samples were held at 105°C for 18 hours. After treatment, all samples were immersed in DMEM (Sigma-Aldrich, UK) with Penicillin Streptomycin (Sigma-Aldrich, Kent, UK) at 4%v/v and held at 37°C in an incubator. Untreated polyethylene samples were included as controls. Leaching was quantified gravimetrically at weeks 2, 4 and 8. The radiopacity of the Lipiodol-diffused samples was investigated from µCT images (162kV, resolution 0.2 mm, X Tec, XT H 225 ST, Nikon Metrology, UK). Results. The leaching of Lipiodol and Vitamin E followed the same trend and reached a steady state after week 2. At this point there was a 20% decrease in the Hounsfield Unit and droplets of radiopaque oil were visible in the DMEM solution; these were not evident in subsequent scans. Over 8 weeks of 20% Lipiodol leached out of the polyethylene, which was greater than of 10% Vitamin E. Conclusion. After 8 weeks the radiopaque polyethylene was still identifiable in CT scan images, even though 20% of leaching occurred. The leaching of Lipiodol may be mitigated through cross-linking, which has been shown to reduce leaching of Vitamin E; this will be investigated as future work. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Aims. Wear of the polyethylene (PE) tibial insert of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) increases the risk of revision surgery with a significant cost burden on the healthcare system. This study quantifies wear performance of tibial inserts in a large and diverse series of retrieved TKAs to evaluate the effect of factors related to the patient, knee design, and bearing material on tibial insert wear performance. Methods. An institutional review board-approved retrieval archive was surveyed for modular PE tibial inserts over a range of in vivo duration (mean 58 months (0 to 290)). Five knee designs, totalling 1,585 devices, were studied. Insert wear was estimated from measured thickness change using a previously published method. Linear regression statistical analyses were used to test association of 12 patient and implant design variables with calculated wear rate. Results. Five patient-specific variables and seven implant-specific variables were evaluated for significant association with lower insert wear rate. Six were significant when controlling for other factors: greater patient age, female sex, shorter duration in vivo, polished tray, highly cross-linked PE (HXLPE), and constrained knee design. Conclusion. This study confirmed that knee wear rate increased with duration in vivo. Older patients and females had significantly lower wear rates. Polished modular tibial tray surfaces, HXLPE, and constrained TKA designs were device design factors associated with significantly reduced wear rate. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(11):1695–1701

Introduction. Total knee replacement (TKR) implant designs and materials have been shown to have a significant impact on tibial insert wear. A medial-pivot (MP) design theoretically should generate less wear due to a large contact area in the medial compartment and lower contact stresses. Synovial fluid aspiration studies have confirmed that a first generation MP TKR system (ADVANCE®, MicroPort Orthopedics Inc., Arlington, TN, USA) generates less wear debris than is seen with other implant designs articulating against conventional polyethylene (CP). Objectives. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro wear rate of a second generation MP TKR system (EVOLUTION® Cruciate-Sacrificing, MicroPort Orthopedics Inc., Arlington, TN, USA) using CP tibial inserts and compare to previously published values for other TKR designs with CP and first or second generation crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) tibial inserts. Methods. In vitro wear was assessed for five MP CP tibial inserts, each loaded for 5 megacycles (Mc) of simulated gait in accordance with ISO 14243–3. Insert cleaning and wear measurements were performed every 0.5 Mc in accordance with ISO 14243–2. Manufacturer websites and the MEDLINE database were searched for previously published in vitro wear rates for other TKR designs used in combination with CP and first or second generation XLPE inserts. Second generation XLPE inserts are those with additives or additional manufacturing, such as sequentially annealed and irradiated XLPE (X3®, Stryker, Mahwah, NJ, USA) and vitamin E infused polyethylene (E1®, Biomet, Warsaw, IN, USA). All TKR designs utilized cobalt-chrome (CoCr) femoral components, except Legion-Verilast that included Oxinium™ femoral components (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN, USA). Results. The mean wear rate for the MP system (2.0+0.2 mg/Mc) was less than half the wear rates reported for other TKR designs using CP inserts (Figure 1). The wear was also reduced or similar to those reported for all but three designs used in combination with XLPE inserts (Figure 2). Interestingly, wear rates for the MP system were approximately one-third of those reported for E1 and X3 used in combination with the Scorpio and Triathlon CR TKR systems (Stryker, Mahwah, NJ, USA). The main limitation to the current study is the use of literature comparators. While the comparison studies were all conducted using similar methods on knee wear simulator machines, there were some experimental differences that could potentially impact wear rates (e.g. diluted vs. non-diluted serum, gait patterns, types of testing machines). Conclusions. In vitro wear for a second generation MP TKR system was similar or lower than what has been previously reported for other TKR systems used with CP or XLPE tibial inserts. These results suggest that implant design may play a larger role in TKR wear debris generation than the material used for the tibial insert

Isolated liner exchange with highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) is an option to address polyethylene wear and osteolysis after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The liner can be fixed with either the original locking mechanism or cemented into the acetabular cup. Whether the method used for fixation of HXLPE liner has any bearing on the outcomes 10 to 15 years after surgery is still unclear. Data for all patients who had undergone isolated liner exchange surgery with HXLPE in our institution between August 2000 and January 2015 were retrieved. Patients were classified according to the locking mechanism used (original locking mechanism or cemented). Survivorship and revision rates were compared among different subgroups. A total of 86 isolated liner exchanges were performed and patients had a mean duration of follow-up of 13 years (range, 5 to 22). 50 patients had the new liner cemented and the other 36 patients used the original locking mechanism. 20 patients (23.3%) had complications, with dislocation being the most common (7). 10 of them (12.6%) required re-revision surgery. Overall estimated mean survivorship was 19.2 years. There was no significant difference in the re-revision rate between original locking mechanism (11.1%) and cementation (12.0%) for the fixation of HXLPE (p=0.899). Using the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the revision-free survival of HXLPE fixed with original locking mechanism and cementation were 94.1% and 93.2%, respectively, at 10 years, and were 84.7% and 81.3%, respectively, at 20 years (p=0.840). The re-revision rate and the revision-free survival of liner exchange surgery using HXLPE liner were not affected by the fixation technique used. Both cementing a HXLPE liner or using the original locking mechanism were associated with good survivorship at 13 years follow up

Purpose: We compared two series of total hip arthroplasties (THA) at more than 12 years. The only difference between the two series was the nature of the femoral head: 28-mm zincronia head versus 32-mm alumina head. Material and method: All THAs were performed during the same period (1988–1990) and the polyethylene inserts, the femoral components, the surgical cement and the operator were the same for both series. Patient age and mean weight were the same for the two series of 40 Zir/PE and 62 AL/PE implants: 98 and 63 years and 72 and 73 kg respectively. Implant survival, polyethylene wear on AP and lateral x-rays, and Merckel osteolysis were studied. Results: Three revisions were required at eight, ten and eleven years in the Zir/PE group. No revisions were required in the Al/PE group where there were no signs of loosening on the radiograms. During the first four years, polyethylene wear appeared to be the same in the two series. Beyond the fifth year, penetration of the alumina heads exhibited a regular mean 0.07 mm progression per year. Beyond the fifth year, penetration of the zircona heads accelerated reaching a mean 0.4 mm per year at twelve years. Mean volumetric wear of the polyethylene cups was 1360 mm3 for the zircona heads and 755 mm3 for the alumina heads. Osteolysis was seen as a defected facing the merckel and measured 2.5 cm2 for the Zir/PE couple and 0.35 cm2 for the Al/PE couple. The differences between the two series in linear penetration, volumetric wear, and osteolysis were significant (p < 0.05). The three zircona heads that were removed showed partial transformation from the tetragonal phase to the monoclinical phase (19%, 25% and 30%) and a roughened surface which was not sufficient to explain the polyethylene wear. Abnormal wear was explained more by loss of spherical shape and the greater volume of the zircona heads, probably related to a modification of the crystalline phase (change from the tetragonal to the monoclinical phase usually is associated with a 3% increase in volume). Analysis of the fingerprints left on the morse code of the zircona heads suggest the change in volume of the zircona heads was associated with a change in the contact between the morse cone and the zircona head over time. Analysis of the explanted cups showed wear with delamination in two cases. For one of the implants, the polyethylene insert was deformed exhibiting a fusion aspect corresponding to abnormal increase in temperature. Discussion and conclusion: The zircona implants manufactured more than twelve years ago probably do not meet current manufacturing standards. Nevertheless, the changes observed in the explanted pieces would suggest they are related not only to the manufacturing process but also to the material itself

Purpose of the study: The limitations of conventional polyethylene are well known (osteolysis). New bearing surfaces have been proposed for hip arthroplasty including new-generation polyethylene products. Material and methods: We compared four bearings including one metal-on-metal and one ceramic-on-ceramic bearing with results not available for analysis at this 4 years 8 month follow-up. The comparative randomized study included 102 first intention total hip arthroplasties comparing a single variable: the bearing. Common elements were: metal-back press-fit cup (Fitmore) and cemented anatomic stem (Emeraude). Variable elements were: alpha Sulène insert + 28 metal head (n=53) versus alpha Dursul insert + 28 metal head (n=49). Clinical outcome was assessed with the Postel-Merle-d’Aubigné score and the Harris score. Radiological outcome was assessed with: wear (EBRA, semiautomatic linear radiographic penetration), cup migration according to EBRA, and radiographic changes in zone 7. Results: After checking the validity of the files studied, clinical outcome was strictly the same for the two series: wear Sulène polyethylene 0.21 mm; Durasul polyethylene 0.1 mm. Cup migration was: Sulène polyethylene 0.13 mm; Durasul polyethylene 0.08 mm. Modifications of zone 7 were: Sulène polyethylene 17.8%; Durasul polyethylene 6.6%. Conclusion: With 4 years 8 months follow-up, several elements are in favor of the new-generation polyethylene inserts, confirming theoretical results with mathematical models. This length of follow-up is insufficient to draw formal conclusions concerning in vivo aging

This study assesses a method of optimizing the polyethylene-cement interface when cementing a constrained liner into a pre-existing acetabular shell. We tested several configurations of liner modification including random roughening, 2mm and 4mm wide grooves Statistical analysis showed that the grooved liners had significantly higher moment to failure than both the unmodified and roughened liners. There was no difference between the 2 and 4mm grooved liners. The purpose of this study was to answer the question: what liner preparation will provide the most stable polyethylene – cement interface?. Two and 4mm circumferential grooves and meticulous cementing technique can significantly increase the strength of the polyethylene-cement interface. All samples failed at the polyethylene – cement interface. Statistically significant differences were found between the following groups: unmodified vs. 2mm (p=0.005) and 4mm groove (p=0.012) and roughened vs. 4mm groove (p=0.011). Modification of a constrained liner with circumferential grooves may improve the stability of the cement interface enough to make this a more reliable technique in revision hip surgery. Polyethylene was machined into 50mm diameter liners. These were cemented using PMMA into aluminum acetabular shells ensuring a 3mm cement mantle. Lever-out testing was performed on four groups; no modification, random roughening, 2mm and 4mm grooves. When an acetabular component is well fixed/positioned, the option of cementing a constrained liner into the fixed shell is an option. Experience has shown that the most common mode of failure in this technique is the polyethylene-cement interface. Funding: This study was funded by the Division of Orthopedics, Department of Surgery, and the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan

Dual mobility (DM) total hip replacements (THRs) were introduced to reduce dislocation risk, which is the most common cause of early revision. Although DM THRs have shown good overall survivorship and low dislocation rates, the mechanisms which describe how these bearings function in-vivo are not fully understood. Therefore, the study aim was to comprehensively assess retrieved DM polyethylene liners for signs of damage using visual inspection and semi-quantitative geometric assessment methods. Retrieved DM liners (n=18) were visually inspected for the presence of surface damage, whereby the internal and external surfaces were independently assigned a score of one (present) or zero (not present) for seven damage modes. The severity of damage was not assessed. The material composition of embedded debris was characterised using energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX). Additionally, each liner was geometrically assessed for signs of wear/deformation [1]. Scratching and pitting were the most common damage modes on either surface. Additionally, burnishing was observed on 50% of the internal surfaces and embedded debris was identified on 67% of the external surfaces. EDX analysis of the debris identified several materials including titanium, cobalt-chrome, iron, and tantalum. Geometric analysis demonstrated highly variable damage patterns across the liners. The incidence of burnishing was three times greater for the internal surfaces, suggesting that this acts as the primary articulation site. The external surfaces sustained more observable damage as evidenced by a higher incidence of embedded debris, abrasion, delamination, and deformation. In conjunction with the highly variable damage patterns observed, these results suggest that DM kinematics are complex and may be influenced by several factors (e.g., soft tissue fibrosis, patient activities) and thus further investigation is warranted

Introduction. Recently, tibial insert design of cruciate-substituting (CS) polyethylene insert is employed. However, in vivo kinematics of using CS polyethylene insert is still unclear. In this study, it is hypothesized that CS polyethylene insert leads to stability of femolo-tibial joint as well as posterior-stabilized polyethylene insert, even if posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is sacrificed after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study is an investigation of in vivo kinematics of three different tibial insert designs using computer assisted navigation system intra-operatively in TKA. Materials and Methods. Sixty-four consecutive patients who had knees of osteoarthritis with varus deformity were investigated in this study. All TKAs (Triathlon, Stryker, New Jersey, USA) were performed using computer assisted navigation system. During surgery, three different designs of polyethylene tibial trial inserts (PS, CS, and cruciate-retaining (CR) polyethylene insert) were inserted respectively after implantation of femoral and tibial components. The kinematic parameters of the soft-tissue balance were obtained by interpreting kinematics curve, which display bicompartmental gaps throughout the range of motion (ROM) after implantation of each trial insert (Figure. 1). During record of kinematics, the surgeon gently lifted the experimental thigh three times, flexing the hip and knee. Deviation of these three values in each ROM was calculated in each tibial insert in each patient for descriptive analysis. Results. Regarding to values of compartmental gaps, there are no significance between three inserts in both medial and lateral compartments (Figure 2a, b). On medial compartmental gaps, the values of deviations were significantly higher in CR insert than both of PS and CS insert in ROM of over 45 degrees in extension (Fig 3a). In addition, concerning lateral compartmental gaps, the values of deviations were significantly higher in CS insert than both PS and CS insert in all ROM (Fig 3b). Furthermore, there was no significance between PS and CS insert in overall range of motion in both medial and lateral compartmental gaps (Fig 3a, b). Discussion. These results demonstrated that CS polyethylene insert has a stability of femoro-tibial joint nearly as well as PS polyethylene insert. While PS insert may leads to surface damage on open box and has necessity of cutting more bone of femur, some problems involving management of PCL are enumerated in CR inserts. The main design feature of Triathlon CS insert is single radius and rotary arc, in addition, the posterior lip is same as that of Triathlon CR, which can be the factor to avoid paradoxical anterior movement and to permit internal and external rotation between femoral and tibial component. Due to the design features and benefits, there is a high possibility that CS insert can lead same ROM as PS insert, although PS design can produce more ROM than the other type of insert type. Based on these backgrounds, it is suggested that CS insert may have an additional choice in TKA with some advantages especially in concerning of high activity patients like middle aged patients

Abstract. Introduction. The Oxford Unicompartmental Knee Replacement's (OUKR's) fully-congruent design minimises polyethylene wear. Consequently, wear is a rare failure mechanism. Phase-3 OUKR linear wear at 5 years was higher than previous OUKR phases, but very low compared to fixed-bearing UKRs. This study aimed to measure OUKR bearing wear at 10 years and investigate factors that may affect wear. Methodology. Bearing thickness for 39 OUKRs from a randomised study was calculated using radiostereometric analysis at regular intervals up to 10 years. Data for 39 and 29 OUKRs was available at 5 and 10 years, respectively. As creep occurs early, wear rate was calculated using linear regression between 6 months and 10 years. Relationships between wear and patient factors, fixation method, Oxford Knee Score (OKS), bearing position, and component position were analysed. Results. The mean wear rate was 0.06mm/year. Fixation method, age, OKS, component size, and bearing size had no correlation with wear. A higher BMI was associated with lower wear (p=0.01). Bearings more than 4mm from the wall had significantly more wear (p=0.04) than those less than 4mm from the wall. There was a linear correlation between the femoral component contact area on the bearing and wear (p=0.04). Conclusions. Phase-3 bearing wear rate is constant, significantly higher than previous OUKR phases at 10 years, and may increase the risk of long-term bearing failure. To minimise complications associated with wear, size 4 bearings should be used in young patients and manufacturing bearings from more durable, highly crosslinked polyethylene should be studied

Aims. Vitamin E-infused highly crosslinked polyethylene (VEPE) has been introduced into total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the aim of further improving the wear characteristics of moderately and highly crosslinked polyethylenes (ModXLPE and HXLPE). There are few studies analyzing the outcomes of vitamin E-infused components in cemented arthroplasty, though early acetabular component migration has been reported. The aim of this study was to measure five-year polyethylene wear and acetabular component stability of a cemented VEPE acetabular component compared with a ModXLPE cemented acetabular component. Methods. In a prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT), we assessed polyethylene wear and acetabular component stability (primary outcome) with radiostereometric analysis (RSA) in 68 patients with reverse hybrid THA at five years follow-up. Patients were randomized to either a VEPE or a ModXLPE cemented acetabular component. Results. Mean polyethylene wear in the proximal direction was 0.17 mm (SD 0.15) for the VEPE group and 0.20 mm (SD 0.09) for the ModXLPE group (p = 0.005) at five years. Annual proximal wear rates were 0.03 mm/year (VEPE) and 0.04 mm/year (ModXLPE). Total 3D wear was 0.21 mm (SD 0.26) and 0.23 mm (SD 0.10) for the VEPE and ModXLPE groups, respectively (p = 0.009). Total 3D cup translation was 0.72 mm (SD 0.70) (VEPE) and 0.50 mm (SD 0.44) (ModXLPE) (p = 0.409). Conclusion. At five years, there was less polyethylene wear in the VEPE group than in the ModXLPE group. Both VEPE and ModXLPE cemented components showed low annual wear rates. Component stability was similar in the two groups and remained constant up to five years. Whether these results will equate to a lower long-term revision rate is still unknown. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1646–1653

Aims. Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is the most accurate radiological method to measure in vivo wear of highly cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) acetabular components. We have previously reported very low wear rates for a sequentially irradiated and annealed X3 XLPE liner (Stryker Orthopaedics, USA) when used in conjunction with a 32 mm femoral heads at ten-year follow-up. Only two studies have reported the long-term wear rate of X3 liners used in conjunction with larger heads using plain radiographs which have poor sensitivity. The aim of this study was to measure the ten-year wear of thin X3 XLPE liners against larger 36 or 40 mm articulations with RSA. Methods. We prospectively reviewed 19 patients who underwent primary cementless THA with the XLPE acetabular liner (X3) and a 36 or 40 mm femoral head with a resultant liner thickness of at least 5.8 mm. RSA radiographs at one week, six months, and one, two, five, and ten years postoperatively and femoral head penetration within the acetabular component were measured with UmRSA software. Of the initial 19 patients, 12 were available at the ten-year time point. Results. The median proximal, 2D, and 3D wear rates calculated between one and ten years were all less than 0.005 mm/year, with no patient recording a proximal wear rate of more than 0.021 mm/year. Importantly, there was no increase in the wear rate between five and ten years. Conclusion. The very low wear rate of X3 XLPE liners with larger articulations remains encouraging for the future clinical performance of this material. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(11):839–845

Introduction. While advances in joint-replacement technology have made total ankle arthroplasty a viable treatment for end-stage arthritis, revision rates for ankle replacements are higher than in hip or knee replacements [1]. The questions asked in this study were (1) what retrieved ankle devices demonstrate about ankle arthroplasty failures, and (2) how do these failures compare to those seen in the hip and the knee?. Materials and Methods. An IRB-approved retrieval laboratory received retrieved polyethylene inserts and surgeon-supplied reason for revision from 70 total-ankles (7 designs, including five currently-marketed designs) from 2002 to the present. All retrievals were rated for clinical damage. Polyethylene inserts received six months or less after retrieval (n=45) were analyzed for oxidation using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, reported as maximum ketone oxidation index [2]. Insert sterilization method was verified using trans-vinylene index [3]. Oxidation measured in the 45 ankle inserts versus their time in vivo was compared to oxidation rates previously published for gamma-sterilized hip and knee polyethylene retrievals [6]. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS v.22. Results. The ankle devices were retrieved most commonly for loosening (n=22) followed by polyethylene fracture (n=9). These failure modes occurred after statistically different in vivo time (loosening: mean=4.4±3.6 years; polyethylene insert fracture: mean=9.5±4.1 years; p=0.002). Presence of clinical fatigue (cracking and/or delamination) was identified in 24 of the 70 retrieved inserts, and its presence correlated with in vivo time (Spearman's rho =0.449, p<0.001). Thirteen of these fatigued inserts were analyzed by FTIR. TVI analysis confirmed the sterilization method of the fatigued inserts: 12 gamma, 1 non-gamma sterilized. All 13 fatigued inserts had maximum ketone oxidation index (KOI) of 1.2 or higher. Presence of fatigue correlated with measured oxidation (Spearman's rho =0.685, p<0.001). Six of the 9 inserts that fractured in vivo were analyzed by FTIR. All were gamma-sterilized, and all had oxidation of 1.2 or higher. Oxidation rate determined for most of the 45 ankle inserts was at or above oxidation rates previously published for gamma-sterilized hip and knee polyethylene retrievals [6]. Discussion. This retrieval study concurs with the ankle arthroplasty literature that loosening is the most common reason for ankle revision [4]. Ankle inserts retrieved as a result of implant loosening had lower oxidation and no fatigue damage resulting from their shorter in vivo time. Fatigued and/or fractured inserts were in vivo for longer times, allowing more oxidation to occur. The effect of oxidation on polyethylene tensile strength and ductility has been reported for tibial inserts [5]. Oxidation above the critical value [5] has a dramatic effect on the ability of the polyethylene to resist fatigue damage and fracture, since the toughness of the polyethylene drops to near zero. All fatigued and fractured ankle inserts had oxidation that exceeded this critical oxidation. Most ankle inserts, whether gamma or non-gamma sterilized, oxidized at or above the oxidation rates previously published for gamma-sterilized hip and knee polyethylene retrievals [6]

Aims. The aim of this study was to establish the results of isolated exchange of the tibial polyethylene insert in revision total knee arthroplasty (RTKA) in patients with well-fixed femoral or tibial components. We report on a series of RTKAs where only the polyethylene was replaced, and the patients were followed for a mean of 13.2 years (10.0 to 19.1). Patients and Methods. Our study group consisted of 64 non-infected, grossly stable TKA patients revised over an eight-year period (1998 to 2006). The mean age of the patients at time of revision was 72.2 years (48 to 88). There were 36 females (56%) and 28 males (44%) in the cohort. All patients had received the same cemented, cruciate-retaining patella resurfaced primary TKA. All subsequently underwent an isolated polyethylene insert exchange. The mean time from the primary TKA to RTKA was 9.1 years (2.2 to 16.1). Results. At final follow-up, 13 patients had died, leaving 51 patients for study. Only seven of these patients had required re-operation. Knee Society scores (KSS) prior to RTKA were a mean of 78.4 (24 to 100). By six weeks post-revision, the mean total KSS was 93.5 (38 to 100) and at final follow-up, they had a mean of 91.6 (36 to 100). Conclusion. In appropriate circumstances, where the femoral and tibial components are satisfactorily aligned and well fixed, and where the soft tissues can be balanced, a polyethylene exchange alone can provide a durable solution for these RTKA patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B(7 Supple C):104–107

Introduction. The interaction between the mobile components of total elbow replacements (TER) provides additional constraint to the elbow motion. Semi-constrained TER depend on a mechanical linkage to avoid dislocation and have greater constraint than unconstrained TER that rely primarily in soft tissue for joint stability. Greater constraint increases the load transfer to the implant interfaces and the stresses in the polyethylene components. Both of these phenomena are detrimental to the longevity of TER, as they may result in implant loosening and increased damage to the polyethylene components, respectively[1]. The objective of this work was to compare the constraint profile in varus-valgus and internal-external rotation and the polyethylene stresses under loads from a common daily activity between two semi-constrained TER, Coonrad/Morrey (Zimmer-Biomet) and Discovery® (DJO), and an unconstrained TER, TEMA (LimaCorporate). Methods. We developed finite element (FE) models of the three TER mechanisms. To reduce computational cost, we did not include the humeral and ulnar stems. Materials were linear-elastic for the metallic components (E. Ti6Al4V. =114.3 GPa, E. CoCr. =210 GPa, v=0.33) and linear elastic-plastic for the polyethylene components (E=618 MPa, v=0.46; S. Y. =22 MPa; S. U. =230.6 MPa; ε. U. =1.5 mm/mm). The models were meshed with linear tetrahedral elements of sizes 0.4–0.6 mm. We assumed a friction coefficient of 0.02 between metal and polyethylene. In all simulations, the ulnar component was fixed and the humeral component loaded. We computed the constraint profiles in full extension by simulating each mechanism from 8° varus to 8° valgus and from 8° internal to 8° external rotation. All other degrees-of-freedom except for flexion extension were unconstrained. Then, we identified the instant during feeding that generated the highest moments at the elbow[2], and we applied the joint forces and moments to each TER to evaluate the stresses in the polyethylene. To validate the FE results, we experimentally evaluated the constraint of the design with highest polyethylene stresses in pure internal-external rotation and compared the results against those from a FE model that reproduced the experimental setup (Fig.1-a). Results. For each design, the constraint profiles in varus-valgus (Fig.2-a) were similar to internal-external rotation (Fig.2-b). All designs showed a lax zone in which the mechanisms rotated freely and an engagement zone in which the mobile components contacted, resulting in load transfer. The laxity of the Coonrad/Morrey and the Discovery® was similar and lower than that of the TEMA. After engagement, the stiffness of the TEMA was less than that of the Discovery® and the Coonrad/Morrey. The TEMA showed the lowest polyethylene stresses of all three designs under demanding loads during feeding. Only Discovery® and Coonrad/Morrey had zones reaching permanent deformation (Fig.3). For the Coonrad/Morrey, with the highest polyethylene stresses, the experimental and computational constraint profiles were similar (Fig.1-b). Discussion. The TEMA unconstrained design transferred less moment than semi-constrained designs, reducing the burden on the implant interfaces. Moreover, the TEMA design had lower stresses in the polyethylene components due to the combination of less constraint and a lack of sharp edges on the articular surfaces. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

Dual mobility hip arthroplasty utilizes a freely rotating polyethylene liner to protect against dislocation. As liner motion has not been confirmed in vivo, we investigated the liner kinematics in vivo using dynamic radiostereometry. 16 patients with Anatomical Dual Mobility acetabular components were included. Markers were implanted in the liners using a drill guide. Static RSA recordings and patient reported outcome measures were obtained at post-op and 1-year follow-up. Dynamic RSA recordings were obtained at 1-year follow-up during a passive hip movement: abduction/external rotation, adduction/internal rotation (modified FABER-FADIR), to end-range and at 45° hip flexion. Liner- and neck movements were described as anteversion, inclination and rotation. Liner movement during modified FABER-FADIR was detected in 12 of 16 patients. Median (range) absolute liner movements were: anteversion 10° (5–20), inclination 6° (2–12), and rotation 11° (5–48) relative to the cup. Median absolute changes in the resulting liner/neck angle (small articulation) was 28° (12–46) and liner/cup angle (larger articulation) was 6° (4–21). Static RSA showed changes in median (range) liner anteversion from 7° (-12–23) postoperatively to 10° (-3–16) at 1-year follow-up and inclination from 42 (35–66) postoperatively to 59 (46–80) at 1-year follow-up. Liner/neck contact was associated with high initial liner anteversion (p=0.01). The polyethylene liner moves over time. One year after surgery the liner can move with or without liner/neck contact. The majority of movement is in the smaller articulation between head and liner

Aims. We aimed to investigate if the use of the largest possible cobalt-chromium head articulating with polyethylene acetabular inserts would increase the in vivo wear rate in total hip arthroplasty. Methods. In a single-blinded randomized controlled trial, 96 patients (43 females), at a median age of 63 years (interquartile range (IQR) 57 to 69), were allocated to receive either the largest possible modular femoral head (36 mm to 44 mm) in the thinnest possible insert or a standard 32 mm head. All patients received a vitamin E-doped cross-linked polyethylene insert and a cobalt-chromium head. The primary outcome was proximal head penetration measured with radiostereometric analysis (RSA) at two years. Secondary outcomes were volumetric wear, periacetabular radiolucencies, and patient-reported outcomes. Results. At two years, 44 patients in each group were available for RSA assessment. The median total two-year proximal head penetration was -0.02 mm (IQR -0.09 to 0.07; p = 0.548) for the largest possible head and -0.01 mm (IQR -0.07 to 0.10; p = 0.525) for 32 mm heads. Their difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.323). Neither group demonstrated a bedding-in period. The median steady-state volumetric wear rates were 6.1 mm. 3. /year (IQR -59 to 57) and 3.5 mm. 3. /year (-21 to 34) respectively, and did not differ between the groups (p = 0.848). There were no statistically significant differences in periacetabular radiolucencies or patient-reported outcomes. Conclusion. The use of the largest possible metal head did not increase vitamin E-doped cross-linked polyethylene wear compared with 32 mm heads at two years. Linear wear was negligible and volumetric wear rates were very low in both head size groups. There was a tendency towards higher values of volumetric wear in large heads that warrants longer-term evaluation before any definite conclusions about the association between head size and wear can be drawn. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1206–1214

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surface damage, the density of crosslinking, and oxidation in retrieved antioxidant-stabilized highly crosslinked polyethylene (A-XLPE) tibial inserts from total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and to compare the results with a matched cohort of standard remelted highly crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) inserts. Materials and Methods. A total of 19 A-XLPE tibial inserts were retrieved during revision TKA and matched to 18 retrieved XLPE inserts according to the demographics of the patients, with a mean length of implantation of 15 months (1 to 42). The percentage areas of PE damage on the articular surfaces and the modes of damage were measured. The density of crosslinking of the PE and oxidation were measured at loaded and unloaded regions on these surfaces. Results. A-XLPE inserts had higher rates of burnishing and lower rates of pitting and scratching compared with XLPE. There were no differences in the density of crosslinking at loaded and unloaded regions. A-XLPE showed higher oxidation indices in the unloaded surface region compared with XLPE. There were no differences in the levels of oxidation in the loaded regions. Conclusion. Retrieval analysis of A-XLPE did not reflect a clinically relevant difference in surface damage, density of crosslinking, or oxidation compared with XLPE tibial inserts at short-term evaluation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1330–5

Abstract. Objectives. Oil-based fluids can be used to enhance the properties of polyethylene materials. For example, vitamin E infused polyethylene has a superior oxidation resistance and Lipiodol infused polyethylene has an enhanced X-ray attenuation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term influence of oily fluid on the chemical, physical and tensile properties of polyethylene. Methods. An accelerated ageing procedure (an elevated temperature (80. °. C) for four weeks in air. 1. ) was used to investigate the oxidative stability (ASTM F2012-17). 2. , tensile (ISO 527). 3. and thermal properties. 4. of oil treated polyethylene (n=5, GUR 1050, Celanese, Germany)and compared with clinically used polyethylene controls (oil-free standard and thermally treated polyethylene). All the experiments were performed on aged and unaged specimens in accordance to international standards and compared to currently available literature. A Kruskal-Wallis test was performed using a custom MATLAB code (R2017a, USA); with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results. Samples treated with an oil (Vitamin E or Lipiodol) had a higher oxidation stability than currently used medical grade polyethylene, indicated by a smaller increase in oxidation index after ageing (Vitamin E 36%, Lipiodol 40%, untreated 136 %, thermally treated 164%). The mechanical degradation of oil treated polyethylene was also less significant than the untreated controls, as all the tensile properties of oil treated polyethylene after ageing were significantly higher than the standard controls (p>0.05). There was also no alteration in the percentage crystallinity of oil treated samples after ageing. Conclusion. The result of this study indicate that the presence of an oily fluid in polyethylene does not reduce its oxidative stability or tensile properties, providing improved material properties for long term implant applications. Declaration of Interest. (b) declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported:I declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project

Aims. There is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of alternative polyethylene bearings in modular, fixed-bearing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study was to compare standard polyethylene (SP) and highly crosslinked polyethylene (XLP) tibial liners in posterior-stabilized TKA, with osteolysis as the primary outcome and clinical results and the rate of re-operation as the secondary outcomes. Patients and Methods. This is a single-surgeon, prospective randomized study involving one design of modular posterior-stabilized TKA. An analysis of 122 TKAs with an SP compression moulded liner and 123 with an XLP liner was performed, with a mean follow-up of six years (2 to 11). Patients were evaluated clinically using the Knee Society score, Lower Extremity Activity Score (LEAS), and the presence of an effusion, and standard radiographs were assessed for radiolucent lines and osteolytic lesions. Results. Osteolysis was present in four TKAs (3.3%) in the SP group, and no knees in the XLP group (p = 0.06). There were no significant differences between the Knee Society total score, change in total score, knee function score, change in function score, LEAS, and change in LEAS in the two groups. There was a significant difference in the presence of an effusion (10/122 with SP liners, 1/123 with XLP liners; p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the rate of re-operation between the two groups (p = 0.36). There were no complications related to the XLP liner. Conclusion. At this length of follow-up, there were no advantages and no complications related to the use of this XLP tibial liner. The presence of effusion and small osteolytic lesions was more frequent with SP than XLP liners, but of unknown clinical significance. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B(7 Supple C):33–39

Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate whether wear and backside deformation of polyethylene (PE) tibial inserts may influence the cement cover of tibial trays of explanted total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). Methods. At our retrieval centre, we measured changes in the wear and deformation of PE inserts using coordinate measuring machines and light microscopy. The amount of cement cover on the backside of tibial trays was quantified as a percentage of the total surface. The study involved data from the explanted fixed-bearing components of four widely used contemporary designs of TKA (Attune, NexGen, Press Fit Condylar (PFC), and Triathlon), revised for any indication, and we compared them with components that used previous generations of PE. Regression modelling was used to identify variables related to the amount of cement cover on the retrieved trays. Results. A total of 114 explanted fixed-bearing TKAs were examined. This included 76 used with contemporary PE inserts which were compared with 15 used with older generation PEs. The Attune and NexGen (central locking) trays were found to have significantly less cement cover than Triathlon and PFC trays (peripheral locking group) (p = 0.001). The median planicity values of the PE inserts used with central locking trays were significantly greater than of those with peripheral locking inserts (205 vs 85 microns; p < 0.001). Attune and NexGen inserts had a characteristic pattern of backside deformation, with the outer edges of the PE deviating inferiorly, leaving the PE margins as the primary areas of articulation. Conclusion. Explanted TKAs with central locking mechanisms were significantly more likely to debond from the cement mantle. The PE inserts of these designs showed characteristic patterns of deformation, which appeared to relate to the manufacturing process and may be exacerbated in vivo. This pattern of deformation was associated with PE wear occurring at the outer edges of the articulation, potentially increasing the frictional torque generated at this interface. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(12):1791–1801

Aims. We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcome of highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) cemented acetabular components and assess whether any radiolucent lines (RLLs) which arose were progressive. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 170 patients who underwent 187 total hip arthroplasties at two hospitals with a minimum follow-up of ten years. All interventions were performed using the same combination of HXLPE cemented acetabular components with femoral stems made of titanium alloy. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed for the primary endpoint of acetabular component revision surgery for any reason and secondary endpoint of the appearance of RLLs. RLLs that had appeared once were observed over time. We statistically assessed potential relationships between RLLs and a number of factors, including the technique of femoral head autografting and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association score. Results. The mean follow-up period was 13.0 years (10.0 to 16.3). Femoral head autografting was performed on 135 hips (72.2%). One acetabular component was retrieved because of deep infection. No revision was performed for the aseptic acetabular loosening. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve for the primary and secondary endpoints were 98.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) 88.6% to 99.8%) and 79.3% (95% CI 72.8% to 84.6%), respectively. RLLs were detected in 38 hips (21.2%), at a mean of 1.7 years (1 month to 6 years) postoperatively. None of the RLLs were progressive, and the presence of RLLs did not show a significant association with the survival and clinical score. RLLs were more frequently observed in hips without femoral head autografts than in those with autografts. Conclusion. The use of HXLPE cemented acetabular components in total hip arthroplasty demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes after ten years, and no RLLs were progressive, and their presence did not affect the outcome. Femoral head autografting did not negatively impact the acetabular component survival or the appearance of RLLs. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(10):1604–1610

We present minimum 20 year results of a randomized, prospective double blinded trial (RCT) of cross-linked versus conventional polyethylene (PE), using a computer assisted method of PE wear measurement. After Ethics Committee approval, 122 patients were enrolled into an RCT comparing Enduron (non cross-linked PE) and highly cross-linked Marathon PE (DePuy, Leeds, UK). Other than the PE liners, identical components were used, a Duraloc 300 metal shell with one screw, a 28mm CoCr femoral head and a cemented Charnley Elite femoral stem. All patients were followed with anteroposterior (A∼P) and lateral radiographs at 3 days, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10 and 20 years. PE wear was measured with PolyMig, which has a phantom validated accuracy of ± 0.09mm. At minimum 20 year follow-up, 47 patients had died, 5 of which had been revised prior to their death. Another 32 patients were revised and alive, leaving 43 patients unrevised and alive (15 Enduron, 28 Marathon). No patients were lost to follow-up, but 2 were not able to be radiographed (dementia), leaving 41 patients (15 Enduron, 26 Marathon) available for PE wear measurement. After the bedding-in period, Enduron liners had a wear rate of 0.182 mm/year, and Marathon liners had a wear rate of 0.028 mm/year. At 20 years follow-up, 37 patients had required revision. Patients with conventional PE had three times the revision rate (28/37) of those who received XLPE (9/37). This is the longest term RCT showing substantially improved clinical and radiological results when XLPE is used as the bearing surface

The purpose of this study was to precisely measure the 10-year polyethylene wear rate of primary total hips using Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) comparing Oxidized Zirconium (OxZi) to cobalt chrome (CoCr) femoral heads articulating with highly cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE). RSA was performed on 46 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty − 23 who received OxZi femoral heads and 23 who received CoCr heads in combination with XLPE at a minimum of 10 years follow-up. All patients had identical THR systems implanted except for the femoral head utilized. The Centre Index method was utilised to assess total wear rates (from index surgery until final evaluation) using a dedicated RSA Software program (UmRSA Digital Measure v.2.2.1). In addition, the Martell technique was used to subtract head penetration occurring in the first 1–2 years (i.e. bedding-in phase) to allow calculation of the ‘steady state’ wear rates. There were no significant differences in demographics (i.e age, BMI, gender) between the groups. The average time from surgery of the RSA examinations was 11.7 and 12.6 years for the CoCr and OxZi groups respectively. Using the Centre Index Method to calculate total head penetration, wear rates were slightly higher in the OxZi group (0.048 +/− 0.021mm/year) compared to the CoCr group (0.035 +/− 0.017mm/year) with no statistical difference between the groups (p= 0.02). After correction for the bedding-in period, there was no statistically significant difference in mean ‘steady-state’ wear rate between OxZi (0.031 +/− 0.021mm/year) and CoCr (0.024 +/− 0.019mm/year) at 10 year follow up (p= 0.24). A comparison of preoperative and postoperative SF12, HHS, and WOMAC scores showed no statistical difference between the groups. RSA demonstrated the 10 year in-vivo wear rates of both bearing combinations to be well below the threshold for osteolysis. There was no significant difference between either the total or ‘steady-state’ wear rates of the OxZi and CoCr groups at 10 years

Aims

Knee arthroplasty surgery is a highly effective treatment for arthritis and disorders of the knee. There are a wide variety of implant brands and types of knee arthroplasty available to surgeons. As a result of a number of highly publicized failures, arthroplasty surgery is highly regulated in the UK and many other countries through national registries, introduced to monitor implant performance, surgeons, and hospitals. With time, the options available within many brand portfolios have grown, with alternative tibial or femoral components, tibial insert materials, or shapes and patella resurfacings. In this study we have investigated the effect of the expansion of implant brand portfolios and where there may be a lack of transparency around a brand name. We also aimed to establish the potential numbers of compatible implant construct combinations.

Abstract. Introduction. At our national explant retrieval unit, we identified an unusual pattern of backside-deformation on polyethylene (PE) inserts of contemporary total-knee-replacements (TKRs). The PE backside's margins were inferiorly deformed in TKRs with central-locking trays. We reported that this backside-deformation appeared to be linked to tray debonding. Moreover, recent studies have shown high-rate of tray debonding in PS NexGen TKRs. Therefore, we hypothesised that backside deformation on PS inserts may be more than on CR inserts. Methodology. We used peer-reviewed techniques to analyse changes in the bearing (wear rate) and backside surfaces (deformation) of PE inserts using coordinate measuring machines [N=61 NexGen (CR-39 and PS-22) TKRs with non-augmented-trays]. Multiple regression was used to determine which variable had the greatest influence on backside-deformation. The amount of cement cover on trays was quantified as a %of the total surface using Image-J software. Results. There was no statistically significant difference (p=0.238) in median (IQR) wear rate of the CR PEs 18 (12–28) mm. 3. /year and PS PEs 14 (8–20) mm. 3. /year. The PE backside-deformation median (IQR) of PS [297(242–333) µm] was significantly higher (p=0.011), when compared with CR [241(161–259) µm]. Multiple regression modelling showed that duration in-vivo (p=0.037), central-clearance between insert and tray (p<0.001) and constraint (p=0.003) were significantly associated with PE backside-deformation. 27(69%) of CR and 20(91%) PS exhibited ≤10% of cement cover on tray. Conclusion. This explant study showed backside-deformation on PS inserts was more than on CR inserts. Therefore, indicating a high-rate of tibial tray debonding in PS compared to CR NexGen TKRs

Wear of the tibial polyethylene liner of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is complex and multifactorial. The issues involved include those of implant design and locking mechanism, surgical-technical variability, and patient weight and activity level. However, tibial polyethylene fabrication, including bar stock, amount of irradiation, quenching of free radicals, and sterilization may also be factors in the long-term survival of TKA. Highly crosslinked polyethylene is now widely used in total hip arthroplasty, but its value and use in TKA is a subject of great controversy. In making a decision to use these products, the surgeon should consider multiple sources of evidence: in-vitro wear testing; clinical cohort studies; randomised controlled trials; registry survival data; and retrieval analyses. The two questions to be asked are: is there a value or benefit in the use of these new polyethylenes, and what are the risks involved with the use of these products?. Laboratory testing, generally to 5 million cycles, has shown a significant decrease in tibial polyethylene wear of several products, with both cruciate-retaining and substituting designs, and under adverse conditions. Retrospective cohort studies and RCTs comparing conventional and highly crosslinked polyethylene have shown little difference between the two products at mean follow-up times of 5 years. One registry study showed no difference in the rate of revision at short-term follow-up, but the Australian Joint Replacement Registry in 2014 did report a decreased rate of revision for loosening and osteolysis in “young patients” with one particular tibial polyethylene. The risks of the use of highly crosslinked polyethylene include fracture (the tibial liner, PS post, and patella pegs), and particle size-reactivity. However, these risks appear to be quite low. Retrieval data shows lower damage scores with certain polyethylenes, and variable changes in the oxidation score. At present, the data does not support the widespread or routine use of highly crosslinked or antioxidant polyethylene in TKA. However, consideration should be given for use of certain products in young and active patients. Longer-term follow-up will ultimately determine the role of highly crosslinked polyethylene in TKA

Highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) has decreased wear and revision rates in total hip replacement (THR) at a long-term. However, the effect of HXLPE manufacturing characteristics on femoral head penetration has not been clearly defined yet. We report this single-institution study to investigate the clinical and radiological results of different HXLPE liners in THR. In this retrospective cohort analysis of our prospective database, we identified 904 THRs performed between 2000 and 2013. Seven different HXLPE liner types were assessed: remelted (3), annealed (2), sequentially annealed (1) and vitamin E-infused (1). The linear femoral head penetration rate was measured at six weeks, one year, and annually thereafter, using the Roman Software v1.70 package. Thirty hips were revised for the following reasons: aseptic loosening (11), dislocation (12), periprosthetic femoral fracture (6), and infection (1). No hip was revised for wear or osteolysis. 741 THRs were evaluated for a mean follow-up of 15 years (range, 10 to 20). The mean total penetration 15 years after THR was 0.17 mm in the sequentially annealed, and 0.16 mm in the vitamin E-infused groups, whereas it was 0.26 mm in the melted 95 kGy, 0.27 mm in the melted 5 Mrad and 0.25 mm in the melted 100 kGy groups (p=0.001). From one to 15 years after surgery, the mean wear was 0.206 mm in cups with an acetabular inclination greater than 50º and 0.105 mm in those placed between 35º and 50º (p<0.001). Although HXLPE characteristics can result in a different wear performance in patients undergoing THR at a mean follow-up of 15 years, the clinical results are excellent. The position of the acetabular component can influence on the femoral head penetration of modern HXLPEs. Nevertheless, these patients should continue to be monitored to detect future problems

A high proportion of complications following TKR occur at the patellofemoral articulation secondary to delami-nation and adhesive/abrasive wear. Electron beam cross-linking and melting has been shown to substantially reduce delamination and adhesive/abrasive wear in polyethylene tibial inserts. A series of in-vitro patella wear and fatigue tests were developed to explore the benefits of this material at the patellofemoral articulation. Patellae (NKII, Sulzer Orthopedics, Inc., Austin, TX) were tested on an AMTI (Watertown, MA) knee simulator articulating against the trochlear grove of the femoral component. The simulator controlled flexion/ extension and patellofemoral contact force. Each test included patellae manufactured from conventional and electron beam crosslinked and melted polyethylene. Three different simulations were created: i) normal gait (5 million cycles) with optimal component alignment, ii) stair climbing (2 million cycles) with optimal component alignment, iii) stair climbing (2 million cycles) with 4° of femoral component internal rotation to simulate a component malalignment condition. In the last two simulations all patellae were artificially aged for 35 days in 80°C air to simulate one aspect of the long term oxidative state of each material. In normal gait, the unaged conventional and highly cross-linked materials demonstrated similar behaviour. In stair climbing with optimal component alignment, the aged conventional patellae developed cracks by 2 million cycles. In stair climbing with component malalign-ment the aged conventional patellae developed cracks and delamination by 1 million cycles. None of the highly cross-linked components showed cracks or delamination. These results demonstrate the potential advantage of highly cross-linked polyethylene for the patella

Aims. The aim of this study was to identify the effect of the manufacturing characteristics of polyethylene acetabular liners on the survival of cementless and hybrid total hip arthroplasty (THA). Methods. Prospective cohort study using linked National Joint Registry (NJR) and manufacturer data. The primary endpoint was revision for aseptic loosening. Cox proportional hazard regression was the primary analytical approach. Manufacturing variables included resin type, crosslinking radiation dose, terminal sterilization method, terminal sterilization radiation dose, stabilization treatment, total radiation dose, packaging, and face asymmetry. Total radiation dose was further divided into G1 (no radiation), G2 (> 0 Mrad to < 5 Mrad), G3 (≥ 5 Mrad to < 10 Mrad), and G4 (≥ 10 Mrad). Results. A total of 5,329 THAs were revised, 1,290 of which were due to aseptic loosening. Total radiation dose, face asymmetry, and stabilization treatments were found to significantly affect implant survival. G1 had the highest revision risk for any reason and for aseptic loosening and G3 and G4 the lowest. Compared with G1, the adjusted hazard ratio for G2 was 0.74 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64 to 0.86), G3 was 0.36 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.43), and G4 was 0.38 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.47). The cumulative incidence of revision for aseptic loosening at 12 years was 0.52 and 0.54 per 100 THAs for G3 and G4, respectively, compared with 1.95 per 100 THAs in G1. Asymmetrical liners had a lower revision risk due to aseptic loosening and reasons other than aseptic loosening compared with symmetric (flat) liners. In G3 and G4, stabilization with vitamin E and heating above melting point performed best. Conclusion. Polyethylene liners with a total radiation dose of ≥ 5 Mrad, an asymmetrical liner face, and stabilization with heating above the melting point demonstrate best survival. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(1):90–101

Aims. To investigate the effect of polyethylene manufacturing characteristics and irradiation dose on the survival of cemented and reverse hybrid total hip arthroplasties (THAs). Methods. In this registry study, data from the National Joint Registry of England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man (NJR) were linked with manufacturing data supplied by manufacturers. The primary endpoint was revision of any component. Cox proportional hazard regression was a primary analytic approach adjusting for competing risk of death, patient characteristics, head composition, and stem fixation. Results. A total of 290,770 primary THAs were successfully linked with manufacturing characteristics. Overall 4,708 revisions were analyzed, 1,260 of which were due to aseptic loosening. Total radiation dose was identified as a risk factor and included in the Cox model. For statistical modelling of aseptic loosening, THAs were grouped into three categories: G1 (no radiation); G2 ( > 0 to < 5 Mrad); and G3 ( ≥ 5 Mrad). G1 had the worst survivorship. The Cox regression hazard ratio for revision due to aseptic loosening for G2 was 0.7 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.58 to 0.83), and for G3 0.4 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.53). Male sex and uncemented stem fixation were associated with higher risk of revision and ceramic heads with lower risk. Conclusion. Polyethylene irradiation was associated with reduced risk of revision for aseptic loosening. Radiation doses of ≥ 5 Mrad were associated with a further reduction in risk. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(9):563–571

Aims. Several short- and mid-term studies have shown minimal liner wear of highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) in total hip arthroplasty (THA), but the safety of using thinner HXLPE liners to maximize femoral head size remains uncertain. The objective of this study was to analyze clinical survival and radiological wear rates of patients with HXLPE liners, a 36 mm femoral head, and a small acetabular component with a minimum of ten years’ follow-up. Methods. We retrospectively identified 55 patients who underwent primary THA performed at a single centre, using HXLPE liners with 36 mm cobalt-chrome heads in acetabular components with an outer diameter of 52 mm or smaller. Patient demographic details, implant details, death, and all-cause revisions were recorded. Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier survival was used to determine all-cause and liner-specific revision. Of these 55 patients, 22 had a minimum radiological follow-up of seven years and were assessed radiologically for linear and volumetric wear. Results. Overall survival rate for all-cause revision was 94.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 81.7% to 97.2%) at a mean follow-up of 12.8 years (10.9 to 18.7). Three patients were revised, none for liner wear, fracture, or dissociation. A total of 22 patients were included in the radiological analysis (mean follow-up 9.9 years (7.5 to 13.7)). Mean linear liner wear was 0.085 mm (95% CI -0.086 to 0.257) and the volumetric wear rate was 11.097 mm. 3. /year (95% CI -6.5 to 28.7). Conclusion. Using HXLPE liners with 36 mm heads in 52 mm acetabular components or smaller is safe, with excellent survival and low rates of linear and volumetric wear at medium-term follow-up. Patients did not require revision surgery for liner complications such as fracture, dissociation, or wear. Our results suggest that the advantages of using larger heads outweigh the potential risks of using thin HXLPE liners. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(1):29–34

The creep and wear behaviour of highly cross-linked polyethylene and standard polyethylene liners were examined in a prospective, double-blind randomised, controlled trial using radiostereometric analysis. We randomised 54 patients to receive hip replacements with either highly cross-linked polyethylene or standard liners and determined the three-dimensional penetration of the liners over three years. After three years the mean total penetration was 0.35 mm (SD 0.14) for the highly cross-linked polyethylene group and 0.45 mm (SD 0.19) for the standard group. The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0184). From the pattern of penetration it was possible to discriminate creep from wear. Most (95%) of the creep occurred within six months of implantation and nearly all within the first year. There was no difference in the mean degree of creep between the two types of polyethylene (highly cross-linked polyethylene 0.26 mm, SD 0.17; standard 0.27 mm, SD 0.2; p = 0.83). There was, however, a significant difference (p = 0.012) in the mean wear rate (highly cross-linked polyethylene 0.03 mm/yr, SD 0.06; standard 0.07 mm/yr, SD 0.05). Creep and wear occurred in significantly different directions (p = 0.01); creep was predominantly proximal whereas wear was anterior, proximal and medial. We conclude that penetration in the first six months is creep-dominated, but after one year virtually all penetration is due to wear. Highly cross-linked polyethylene has a 60% lower rate of wear than standard polyethylene and therefore will probably perform better in the long term

Introduction Polyethylene wear debris is an important cause of failure in cemented total hip arthroplasty. As a result of the biological response to debris at the bone-cement interface, osteolysis and subsequent failure occurs in both femoral and acetabular components. Most acetabular components and liners are made of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Cross-linking UHMWPE has been shown to significantly reduce abrasive wear in hip simulator studies. The wear rates measured in vitro do not always correlate with the wear rates measured in clinical studies[. 1. ]. Some new polyethylenes have shown catastrophic wear in clinical studies despite encouraging hip simulator study results[. 2. ]. The aim of this study was to compare the wear of standard UHMWPE to that of cross-linked UHMWPE (Longevity, Zimmer, Warsaw, USA). Patients and Methods This was a prospective, double blind, randomised control trial. 50 subjects were recruited, all of whom received the cemented CPT stem and uncemented Trilogy liner (Zimmer, UK). Subjects were randomised to receive either a standard Trilogy liner or a Longevity liner at the time of operation. Both liners are identical in appearance. All liners were of a neutral configuration. RSA was used to measure linear wear. This was calculated by measuring the distance between the centre of the femoral head and the centre of the acetabular liner. The preliminary results of the study are presented. Results Both groups underwent significant wear over two years. The two year linear wear of the cross-linked UHMWPE was 0.3mm (+/− 0.06mm, p< 0.001). The two year linear wear of the standard UHMWPE was 0.39mm (+/− 0.04mm, p< 0.001). No significant difference existed between the two groups (p=0.24). Both cohorts had around 0.15 to 0.2 mm of measured wear per year. Cross-linked UHMWPE therefore underwent less wear than standard UHMWPE at two years, however this difference was not statistically significant. Discussion This study suggests that Longevity UHMWPE has similar wear properties to standard UHMWPE in the first two years following implantation. This does not correlate with in vitro hip simulator studies of Longevity polyethylene, which show a significantly lower wear rate than standard UHMWPE. It suggests that hip simulator studies may be of little value in predicting in vivo wear rates and that all new types of polyethylene should be evaluated clinically and radiologically prior to general release. Whether both cohorts continue to wear at similar rates will only be revealed through continued observation

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials comparing cross-linked with conventional polyethylene liners for total hip replacement in order to determine whether these liners reduce rates of wear, radiological evidence of osteolysis and the need for revision. The MEDLINE, EMBASE and COCHRANE databases were searched from their inception to May 2010 for all trials involving the use of cross-linked polyethylene in total hip replacement. Eligibility for inclusion in the review included the random allocation of treatments, the use of cross-linked and conventional polyethylene, and radiological wear as an outcome measure. The pooled mean differences were calculated for bedding-in, linear wear rate, three-dimensional linear wear rate, volumetric wear rate and total linear wear. Pooled risk ratios were calculated for radiological osteolysis and revision hip replacement. A search of the literature identified 194 potential studies, of which 12 met the inclusion criteria. All reported a significant reduction in radiological wear for cross-linked polyethylene. The pooled mean differences for linear rate of wear, three-dimensional linear rate of wear, volumetric wear rate and total linear wear were all significantly reduced for cross-linked polyethylene. The risk ratio for radiological osteolysis was 0.40 (95% confidence interval 0.27 to 0.58; I. 2. = 0%), favouring cross-linked polyethylene. The follow-up was not long enough to show a difference in the need for revision surgery

Introduction. Wear phenomenon of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in hip and knee prostheses is one of the major restriction factors on the longevity of these implants. In retrieved hip prostheses with screw holes in the metal acetabular cup for fixation to the pelvis, the generation of cold flow into the screw holes is frequently observed on the backside of the UHMWPE acetabular cup liner. In most retrieved cases, the protruded areas of cold flow on the backside were located on the reverse side of the severely worn and deformed surface of the polyethylene liner. It would appear that the cold flow into screw holes contributes to increase of wear and damages of the polyethylene liner in hip prosthesis. Methods. In a previous study (Cho et al., 2016), we pointed out the generation of cold flow into the screw holes on the backside of the retrieved UHMWPE acetabular cup liner as shown in Figure 1. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the cold flow into the screw holes on the wear of the polyethylene liner in hip prosthesis. In this study, computer simulations of the generation of cold flow were performed using the finite element method (FEM) in order to propose the design criteria about the cold flow of the hip prosthesis for improving the wear resistance of the polyethylene liner. We especially focused on the influence of polyethylene thickness and contact surface conformity on the generation of cold flow into the screw hole. Results. An example of the results of a series of the FEM simulations performed in this study is shown in Figure 2. This figure shows the distributions of the contact stress in the polyethylene liners. The graphs shown in Figure 3 are the summary of results of a series of the FEM simulations performed in this study. The graph in Figure 3(a) shows the changes in the maximum contact stress in the polyethylene liner with the thickness of polyethylene liner. The graph in Figure 3(b) shows the changes in the maximum contact stress in the polyethylene liner with the radial clearance between the femoral head and the polyethylene liner. Discussion and Conclusions. It was found that the magnitudes of cold flow and maximum contact stress in the polyethylene liner had a tendency to increase with decreasing the thickness of polyethylene liner. It was also found that the magnitude of cold flow and maximum contact stress in the polyethylene liner had a tendency to increase with increasing the radial clearance between the femoral head and the polyethylene liner. The results of this study suggest that polyethylene thickness and contact surface conformity have a significant influence on the generation of cold flow into the screw holes and wear of the polyethylene liner. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Aims. Vitamin E-diffused, highly crosslinked polyethylene (VEPE) and porous titanium-coated (PTC) shells were introduced in total hip arthroplasty (THA) to reduce the risk of aseptic loosening. The purpose of this study was: 1) to compare the wear properties of VEPE to moderately crosslinked polyethylene; 2) to assess the stability of PTC shells; and 3) to report their clinical outcomes at seven years. Patients and Methods. A total of 89 patients were enrolled into a prospective study. All patients received a PTC shell and were randomized to receive a VEPE liner (n = 44) or a moderately crosslinked polyethylene (ModXLPE) liner (n = 45). Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) was used to measure polyethylene wear and component migration. Differences in wear were assessed while adjusting for body mass index, activity level, acetabular inclination, anteversion, and head size. Plain radiographs were assessed for radiolucency and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were administered at each follow-up. Results. In total, 73 patients (82%) completed the seven-year visit. Mean seven-year linear proximal penetration was -0.07 mm (. sd. 0.16) and 0.00 mm (. sd. 0.22) for the VEPE and ModXLPE cohorts, respectively (p = 0.116). PROMs (p = 0.310 to 0.807) and radiolucency incidence (p = 0.330) were not different between the polyethylene cohorts. The mean proximal shell migration rate was 0.04 mm per year (. sd. 0.09). At seven years, patients with radiolucency (34%) demonstrated greater migration (mean difference: 0.6 mm (. sd. 0.2); p < 0.001). PROMs were lower for patients with radiolucency and greater proximal migration (p = 0.009 to p = 0.045). No implants were revised for aseptic loosening. Conclusion. This is the first randomized controlled trial to report seven-year RSA results for VEPE. All wear rates were below the previously reported osteolysis threshold (0.1 mm per year). PTC shells demonstrated acceptable primary stability through seven years, as indicated by low migration and lack of aseptic loosening. However, patients with acetabular radiolucency were associated with higher shell migration and lower PROM scores. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:760–767

Alpha Lipoic Acid (L.A.) is an effective natural antioxidant discovered in the human body in 1951 from L.J. Reed and I.C. Gunslaus from liver. It is inside broccoli, spinach and red meats, especially liver and spleen. Actually it is largely used as antioxidant in antiaging products according to the low toxicity level of the product. The present study take into consideration the possibility to reduce oxidation of medical irradiated UHMWPE GUR 1050, mixing together polyethylene powder and Alpha Lipoic Acid powder. The study is composed of two parts. Part 1 Thermostability of alpha lipoic acid during polyethylene fusion Part 2 detection of oxygen level in artificially aged irradiated polyethylene. Solid pieces were made with Gur 1050 powder (Ticona Inc., Bayport, Tex, USA) and mixed with Alpha Lipoic Acid (Talamonti, Italy, Stock 1050919074) 0,1%-­‐0,3%-­‐0,5%-­‐1%-­‐2% and gamma ray irradiated with 30 kGy (Isomedix, Northborough, MA). An owen (80° Celsius) was used to produce an aging effect for 35 days in the doped and control samples (Conventional not doped polyethylene). This process simulate an aging effect of 10 years into the human body. Part 1 : THERMAL STABILITY : a Fourier Transfer Infra Red (FTIR) test was made in pieces molded in a cell at 150° and 200°Celsius and pressure of 200 MPa comparing to the UHMWPE powder mixed with alpha lipoic acid. The presence of Alpha Lipoic Acid in the polyethylene was found at any depth in the manufacts. Part 2 : OXIDATION OF THE SURFACE : After 5 weeks at 80° Celsius in a owen (ASTM standard F-­‐2003-­‐02)A FOURIER TRANSFER INFRA RED TEST (FTIR) was made in the superficial layer and deeper on the undersurface of doped 0,1% and conventional UHMWPE. The antioxidation limit is defined as the ratio of the area under 1740cm/−­‐1 carbonyl and 1370 cm/−­‐1 Methylene absorbance peaks. In conventional UHMWPE oxidation is detected on the surface and decreases in the deeper layers down to zero under 1500 Micron. In the doped UHMWPE, FTIR demonstrate a very low oxidation limit on the surface and at any depth, comparing to conventional UHMWPE. The examples show that Lipoic Acid is effective as antioxidant in irradiated UHMWPE and it is stable with respect to thermal treatment. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

With the introduction of highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) in total hip arthroplasty (THA), orthopaedic surgeons have moved towards using larger femoral heads at the cost of thinner liners to decrease the risk of instability. Several short and mid-term studies have shown minimal liner wear with the use HXLPE liners, but the safety of using thinner HXPLE liners to maximize femoral head size remains uncertain and concerns that this may lead to premature failure exist. Our objective was to analyze the outcomes for primary THA done with HXLPE liners in patients who have a 36-mm head or larger and a cup of 52-mm or smaller, with a minimum of 10-year follow-up. Additionally, linear and volumetric wear rates of the HXLPE were evaluated in those with a minimum of seven-year follow-up. We hypothesized that there would be minimal wear and good clinical outcome. Between 2000 and 2010, we retrospectively identified 55 patients that underwent a primary THA performed in a high-volume single tertiary referral center using HXLPE liners with 36-mm or larger heads in cups with an outer diameter of or 52-mm or smaller. Patient characteristics, implant details including liner thickness, death, complications, and all cause revisions were recorded. Patients that had a minimum radiographic follow-up of seven years were assessed radiographically for linear and volumetric wear. Wear was calculated using ROMAN, a validated open-source software by two independent researchers on anteroposterior X-rays of the pelvis. A total of 55 patients were identified and included, with a mean age of 74.8 (range 38.67 - 95.9) years and a mean BMI of 28.98 (range 18.87 - 63-68). Fifty-one (94.4%) of patients were female. Twenty-six (47.7%) patients died during the follow-up period. Three patients were revised, none for liner wear, fracture or dissociation. Twenty-two patients had a radiographic follow-up of minimum seven years (mean 9.9 years, min-max 7.5 –13.7) and were included in the long-term radiographic analysis. Liner thickness was 5.5 mm at 45 degrees in all cases but one, who had a liner thickness of 4.7mm, and all patients had a cobalt-chrome head. Cup sizes were 52mm (n=15, 68%) and 50mm (n=7, 32%). Mean linear liner wear was 0.0470 mm/year (range 0 - 0.2628 mm) and mean volumetric wear was 127.69 mm3/year (range 0 - 721.23 mm3/year). Using HXLPE liners with 36-mm heads or bigger in 52-mm cups or smaller is safe, with low rates of linear and volumetric wear in the mid to long-term follow-up. Patients did not require revision surgery for liner complications, including liner fracture, dissociation, or wear. Our results suggest that the advantages of using larger heads should outweigh the potential risks of using thin HXLPE liners

Objectives. Our primary aim was to describe migration of the Exeter stem with a 32 mm head on highly crosslinked polyethylene and whether this is influenced by age. Our secondary aims were to assess functional outcome, satisfaction, activity, and bone mineral density (BMD) according to age. Patients and Methods. A prospective cohort study was conducted. Patients were recruited into three age groups: less than 65 years (n = 65), 65 to 74 years (n = 68), and 75 years and older (n = 67). There were 200 patients enrolled in the study, of whom 115 were female and 85 were male, with a mean age of 69.9 years (sd 9.5, 42 to 92). They were assessed preoperatively, and at three, 12 and, 24 months postoperatively. Stem migration was assessed using Einzel-Bild-Röntgen-Analyse (EBRA). Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Harris Hip Score (HHS), Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), EuroQol-5 domains questionnaire (EQ-5D), short form-36 questionnaire (SF-36,) and patient satisfaction were used to assess outcome. The Lower Extremity Activity Scale (LEAS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and activPAL monitor (energy expelled, time lying/standing/walking and step count) were used to assess activity. The BMD was assessed in Gruen and Charnley zones. Results. Mean varus/valgus tilt was -0.77⁰ and axial subsidence was -1.20 mm. No significant difference was observed between age groups (p ⩾ 0.07). There was no difference according to age group for postoperative WOMAC (p ⩾ 0.11), HHS (p ⩾ 0.06), HOOS (p ⩾ 0.46), EQ-5D (p ⩾ 0.38), patient satisfaction (p ⩾ 0.05), or activPAL (p ⩾ 0.06). Patients 75 years and older had a worse SF-36 physical function (p = 0.01) and physical role (p = 0.03), LEAS score (p < 0.001), a shorter TUG (p = 0.01), and a lower BMD in Charnley zone 1 (p = 0.02). Conclusion. Exeter stem migration is within normal limits and is not influenced by age group. Functional outcome, patient satisfaction, activity level, and periprosthetic BMD are similar across all age groups. Cite this article: N. D. Clement, M. Bardgett, K. Merrie, S. Furtado, R. Bowman, D. J. Langton, D. J. Deehan, J. Holland. Cemented Exeter total hip arthroplasty with a 32 mm head on highly crosslinked polyethylene: Does age influence functional outcome, satisfaction, activity, stem migration, and periprosthetic bone mineral density? Bone Joint Res 2019;8:275–287. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.86.BJR-2018-0300.R1

Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene sterilised in the absence of air and highly cross-linked polyethylene have been used to avoid osteolysis and loosening in total hip replacement. Our prospective randomised study has assessed the results using two different polyethylenes associated with the same prosthetic design. We assessed 45 Allofit acetabular components with a Sulene-polyethylene liner of conventional polyethylene gamma sterilised with nitrogen and 45 Allofit acetabular components with a Durasul-polyethylene liner sterilised in ethylene oxide, both matched with an Alloclassic stem with a 28 mm modular femoral head. The prostheses were implanted between May 1999 and December 2001. The mean follow-up was for 66.3 months (60 to 92). The linear penetration of the femoral head was estimated at 6 weeks, at 6 and 12 months and annually thereafter from standardised digitised radiographs using image-analysis software. There was no loosening of any prosthetic component. There were no radiolucent lines or osteolysis. The mean rate of penetration calculated from regression analysis during the first five years was 38 μm/year (. sd. 2) for the Sulene group and 6 μm/year (. sd. 1) for the Durasul group (p = 0.00002). The rate of penetration of the Durasul group was 15.7% of that of the Sulene group

Highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) has been used with great clinical success in total hip arthroplasty (THA) since its debut in the late 1990's. However, reports regarding this bearing couple in its second decade of service are still scant. The aim of this study was to 1. Determine the long term clinical and radiological results and 2. Investigate what factors affect wear rates using a metal-on-HXLPE bearing articulation. 55 THA's using a single brand of HXLPE liner, cementless cup and 28mm hip ball were performed in 44 patients. Age, sex, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and need for revision surgery were recorded. Linear and volumetric wear was determined using the Martell method. Mean age at operation was 51.2 (29–73 +/− 12.1) years. Mean duration of follow up was 16.9 years (range 15.0–20.1 +/− 1.1 years). Osteolysis was not present in the latest follow up radiographs. Median linear and volumetric wear rate was 0.035mm/year (95% CI 0.031–0.047) and 7.12mm. 3. /year (95% CI 6.92–17.25) respectively. Acetabular component position was not found to be related to both linear and volumetric wear. No significant difference was found in the linear and volumetric wear rates of thinner and thicker liners (8mm or below and > 8mm) (p=0.827 and p=0.843 respectively). HXLPE is associated with very low linear and volumetric wear rates which has virtually obviated osteolysis and has translated to excellent survivorship even at long term follow up. In-vivo oxidation does not appear to be of clinical concern at this point in its service cycle

Introduction. Instability following total knee arthroplasty is a leading cause of failure and is often treated with component revision. The goal of this study was to determine if isolated tibial polyethylene insert exchange (ITPIE) to a higher-level constraint would afford similar outcomes to component revision in the properly selected patient. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated 176 consecutive patients between 2016–2017 who were revised for symptomatic instability at a single institution. Demographic information and level of constraint preoperatively and postoperatively were documented. Radiographic parameters were also recorded for patients undergoing ITPIE. Outcome measures included all cause re-revision rates as well as patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) obtained preoperatively and at minimum 1-yr follow up. Descriptive analysis including sample t-test and chi square test were performed with statistical significance set at p <0.05. Results. 100 patients underwent component revision. 76 patients underwent ITPIE. Patients undergoing ITPIE were not found to have gross malalignment, malrotation, compromised fixation or insufficient collateral ligaments. No statistically significant differences were noted in terms of demographic characteristics between the groups. Similar increases in constraint as well as the thickness of the polyethylene were noted at the time of revision surgery in both groups. Further, patients underwent similar rates of re-revision (15.9% for component revision and 11.8% for ITPIE), p=0.8. In analyzing PROMs, no statistically significant differences were noted. Radiographic parameters of those who underwent ITPIE showed majority of patients to have well aligned components. The average follow-up was 2.3(±1.0)yrs for the component revision group and 2.2(±1.1)yrs for the ITPIE group. Conclusion. In the appropriately selected patient, ITPIE offers similar rates of success to component revision including similar re-revision rates and similar improvement in PROMs. Degree of constraint is generally increased and recommended when patients are treated for instability regardless of component revision or ITPIE. Abbreviations. ITPIE - isolated tibial polyethylene insert exchange. PROMs - patient reported outcome measures

Introduction. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is the sole polymeric material currently used for weight- bearing surfaces in total joint replacement. However, the wear of UHMWPE in the human body after total joint replacement causes serious clinical and biomechanical reactions. Therefore, the wear phenomenon of UHMWPE is now recognized as one of the major factors restricting the longevity of artificial joints. In order to minimize the wear of UHMWPE and to improve the longevity of artificial joints, it is necessary to clarify the factors influencing the wear mechanism of UHMWPE. Materials and Methods. In a previous study (Cho et al., 2016), it was found that roundness (out-of-roundness) of the retrieved UHMWPE acetabular cup liner [Figure 1(a)] had a tendency to increase with increasing roundness of the retrieved metal femoral head [Figure 1(b)]. It appears that roundness of the femoral head contributes to increase of wear of the polyethylene liners. We focused on the roundness of femoral head as a factor influencing the wear of polyethylene liner in hip prosthesis. In this study, further roundness measurements for 5 retrieved metal femoral heads were performed by using a coordinate measuring machine. The elasto-plastic contact analyses between femoral head and polyethylene liner using the finite element method (FEM) were also performed in order to investigate the influence of femoral head roundness on the mechanical state and wear of polyethylene liner in hip prosthesis. Results. The range of roundness of the 5 retrieved metal femoral heads measured in this study was 14.50∼44.70 µm. Two examples of the results of FEM contact analyses are shown in Figure 2. Figure 2(a) is the results of the repeated contact analysis between femoral head and polyethylene liner under constant axial loading of 1000 N. Figure 2(b) is the results of the repeated contact analysis between femoral head and polyethylene liner under hip joint loading during normal gait. These figures show the distribution of the contact stress (von Mises equivalent stress) in the polyethylene liner. The graph in Figure 3 shows the changes in the maximum contact stress in the polyethylene liner with the flexion/extension angle of femoral head. Discussion and Conclusions. As the results of a series of the FEM contact analyses, it was found that repeated high contact stresses which exceed the yield stress of UHMWPE caused by roundness of the metal femoral head occurred in the polyethylene liner as shown in Figures 2 and 3. It was also found that the magnitude and amplitude of the repeated contact stresses had a tendency to increase with increasing roundness of the femoral head and axial loading applied to the femoral head. The results of this analytical study suggest that the roundness (out-of- roundness) of the femoral head is associated with accelerating and/or increasing wear of the UHMWPE acetabular cup liner in a hip prosthesis after total hip replacement. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Aims. The most frequent indication for revision surgery in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is aseptic loosening. Aseptic loosening is associated with polyethylene liner wear, and wear may be reduced by using vitamin E-doped liners. The primary objective of this study was to compare proximal femoral head penetration into the liner between a) two cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) liners (vitamin E-doped (vE-PE)) versus standard XLPE liners, and b) two modular femoral head diameters (32 mm and 36 mm). Methods. Patients scheduled for a THA were randomized to receive a vE-PE or XLPE liner with a 32 mm or 36 mm metal head (four intervention groups in a 2 × 2 factorial design). Head penetration and acetabular component migration were measured using radiostereometric analysis at baseline, three, 12, 24, and 60 months postoperatively. The Harris Hip Score, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity Score, EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D), and 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) were assessed at baseline, three, 12, 36, and 60 months. Results. Of 220 screened patients, 127 were included in this study. In all, 116 received the allocated intervention, and 94 had their results analyzed at five years. Head penetration was similar between liner materials and head sizes at five years, vE-PE versus XLPE was -0.084 mm (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.173 to 0.005; p = 0.064), and 32 mm versus 36 mm was -0.020 mm (95% CI -0.110 to 0.071; p = 0.671), respectively. No differences were found in acetabular component migration or in the patient-reported outcome measures. Conclusion. No significant difference in head penetration was found at five years between vE-PE and XLPE liners, nor between 32 mm and 36 mm heads. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(10):1303–1310

Introduction. Robotically-assisted unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) is intended to improve the precision with which the components are implanted, but the impact of alignment using this technique on subsequent polyethylene surface damage has not been determined. Therefore, we examined retrieved ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene UKA tibial inserts from patients who had either robotic-assisted UKA or UKA performed using conventional manual techniques and compared differences in polyethylene damage with differences in implant component alignment between the two groups. We aimed to answer the following questions: (1) Does robotic guidance improve UKA component position compared to manually implanted UKA? (2) Is polyethylene damage or edge loading less severe in patients who had robotically aligned UKA components? (3) Is polyethylene damage or edge loading less severe in patients with properly aligned UKA components?. Methods. We collected 13 medial compartment, non-conforming, fixed bearing, polyethylene tibial inserts that had been implanted using a passive robotic-arm system and 21 similarly designed medial inserts that had been manually implanted using a conventional surgical technique. Pre-revision radiographs were used to determine the coronal and sagittal alignment of the tibial components. Retrieval analysis of the tibial articular surfaces included damage mapping and 3D laser scanning to determine the extent of polyethylene damage and whether damage was consistent with edge loading of the surface by the opposing femoral component. Results. Though the individual planar alignments did not differ between the two groups, overall 69% of the 13 robotically aligned components were well-positioned in both the coronal and sagittal planes, as opposed to only 18% of the manually aligned tibial components (Fig.1). Robotically aligned inserts had significantly less pitting, burnishing, and deformation than manually aligned inserts, and the maximum surface deviations (wear and deformation) were significantly smaller, though these differences could be explained by a longer length of implantation for the manually aligned inserts. Interestingly, no difference was found in the incidence of edge loading between the robotically aligned and manually aligned groups. When comparing polyethylene damage on the basis of alignment rather than surgical technique, neither the polyethylene damage nor surface deviation was different, aside from more burnishing and deformation in mal-positioned components and greater deviation in components mal-positioned in the sagittal plane. Conclusions. Static radiographic alignment measurements were not useful in predicting the wear patterns that the tibial inserts experienced while implanted, suggesting that other factors, such as the patient's functional kinematics, influence the mechanical burden placed on the polyethylene articular surfaces (Fig. 2)

Aims. The primary aim of this study was to compare the wear properties of vitamin E-diffused, highly crosslinked polyethylene (VEPE) and one formulation of moderately crosslinked and mechanically annealed ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (ModXLPE) in patients five years after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). The secondary aim was to assess the clinical results of patients treated with VEPE by evaluating patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), radiological evidence of fixation, and the incidence of mechanical failure. Patients and Methods. A total of 208 patients (221 THAs) from four international centres were recruited into a prospective study involving radiostereometric analysis (RSA) and the assessment of clinical outcomes. A total of 193 hips (87%) were reviewed at the five-year follow-up. Of these, 136 (70%) received VEPE (vs ModXLPE) liners and 68 (35%) received ceramic (vs metal) femoral heads. PROMs and radiographs were collected preoperatively and at one, two, and five years postoperatively. In addition, RSA images were collected to measure PE wear postoperatively and at one, two, and five years after surgery. Results. We observed similar bedding in one year postoperatively and wear two years postoperatively between the two types of liner. However, there was significantly more penetration of the femoral head in the ModXLPE cohort compared with the VEPE cohort five years postoperatively (p < 0.001). The only variables independently predictive of increased wear were ModXLPE (vs VEPE) liner type (β = 0.22, p = 0.010) and metal (vs ceramic) femoral head (β = 0.21, p = 0.013). There was no association between increased wear and the development of radiolucency (p = 0.866) or PROMs. No patient had evidence of osteolysis. Conclusion. Five years postoperatively, patients with VEPE (vs ModXLPE) and ceramic (vs metal) femoral heads had decreased wear. The rates of wear for both liners were very low and have not led to any osteolysis or implant failure due to aseptic loosening

Introduction. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is the sole polymeric material currently used for weight- bearing surfaces in total joint replacement. However, the wear of UHMWPE and the polyethylene wear debris generated in the human body after total joint replacement cause serious clinical and biomechanical reactions. Therefore, the wear phenomenon of UHMWPE in total joint replacement is now recognized as one of the major factors restricting the longevity of these implants. In order to minimize the wear of UHMWPE and to improve the longevity of artificial joints, it is necessary to clarify the factors influencing the wear mechanism of UHMWPE. Materials and Methods. The wear and/or failure characteristics of 33 retrieved UHMWPE acetabular cup liners of hip prostheses were examined in this study. The retrieved liners had an average in vivo duration of 193.8 months (75 to 290 months). Several examples of the retrieved liners are shown in Figure 1. The elasto-plastic contact analyses between metal femoral neck and polyethylene liner and between metal femoral head and polyethylene liner using the finite element method (FEM) were also performed in order to investigate the factors influencing the wear and/or failure mechanism of the polyethylene liner in hip prosthesis. Results. In the examination of the retrieved polyethylene liners, the generation of component impingement was observed in 24 cases of the 33 retrieved liners (72.7%) as shown in Figures 1(a) and (b). In addition, the generation of cold flow into the screw holes in the metal acetabular cup was observed in 27 cases of the 33 retrieved liners (81.8%) as shown in Figures 1(c) and (d). Several examples of the results of the FEM contact analyses are shown in Figure 2. In the simulation of the component impingement, it was found that high contact stresses which exceed the yield stress of UHMWPE and considerable plastic strains occurred in the rim of the polyethylene liner as shown in Figures 2(a) and (b). In the simulation of the cold flow, it was found that the stress concentration near the edge of screw hole has significant influence on the states of contact stresses and plastic strains in the surface and undersurface (backside) of the polyethylene liner as shown in Figures 2(c) and (d). Discussion and Conclusions. In this study, we focused on the impingement between the metal femoral neck and the polyethylene liner and the cold flow into the screw holes on the backside of the polyethylene liner as the factors influencing the wear and/or failure of the UHMWPE acetabular cup liner in hip prosthesis. The results of these retrieval and analytical studies confirmed that the component impingement and the cold flow into the screw holes contribute to increase of wear and/or failure of the polyethylene liner. Therefore, it is necessary to improve resistance to the component impingement and the cold flow in order to decrease the wear and/or failure of the UHMWPE acetabular cup liner and to increase the longevity of hip prosthesis. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

The Oxford Unicompartmental Knee replacement (UKR) was introduced as a design to reduce polyethylene wear. There has been one previous retrieval study involving this implant, which reported very low rates of wear in some specimens but abnormal patterns of wear in others. There has been no further investigation of these abnormal patterns. The bearings were retrieved from 47 patients who had received a medial Oxford UKR for anteromedial osteoarthritis of the knee. None had been studied previously. The mean time to revision was 8.4 years (. sd. 4.1), with 20 having been implanted for over ten years. The macroscopic pattern of polyethylene wear and the linear penetration were recorded for each bearing. The mean rate of linear penetration was 0.07 mm/year. The patterns of wear fell into three categories, each with a different rate of linear penetration; 1) no abnormal macroscopic wear and a normal articular surface, n = 16 (linear penetration rate = 0.01 mm/year); 2) abnormal macroscopic wear and normal articular surfaces with extra-articular impingement, n = 16 (linear penetration rate = 0.05 mm/year); 3) abnormal macroscopic wear and abnormal articular surfaces with intra-articular impingement +/− signs of non-congruous articulation, n = 15 (linear penetration rate = 0.12 mm/year). The differences in linear penetration rate were statistically significant (p < 0.001). These results show that very low rates of polyethylene wear are possible if the device functions normally. However, if the bearing displays suboptimal function (extra-articular, intra-articular impingement or incongruous articulation) the rates of wear increase significantly

Aims. To report early (two-year) postoperative findings from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigating disease-specific quality of life (QOL), clinical, patient-reported, and radiological outcomes in patients undergoing a total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) with a second-generation uncemented trabecular metal (TM) glenoid versus a cemented polyethylene glenoid (POLY) component. Methods. Five fellowship-trained surgeons from three centres participated. Patients aged between 18 and 79 years with a primary diagnosis of glenohumeral osteoarthritis were screened for eligibility. Patients were randomized intraoperatively to either a TM or POLY glenoid component. Study intervals were: baseline, six weeks, six-, 12-, and 24 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was the Western Ontario Osteoarthritis Shoulder QOL score. Radiological images were reviewed for metal debris. Mixed effects repeated measures analysis of variance for within and between group comparisons were performed. Results. A total of 93 patients were randomized (46 TM; 47 POLY). No significant or clinically important differences were found with patient-reported outcomes at 24-month follow-up. Regarding the glenoid components, there were no complications or revision surgeries in either group. Grade 1 metal debris was observed in three (6.5%) patients with TM glenoids at 24 months but outcomes were not negatively impacted. Conclusion. Early results from this RCT showed no differences in disease-specific QOL, radiographs, complication rates, or shoulder function between uncemented second-generation TM and cemented POLY glenoids at 24 months postoperatively. Revision surgeries and reoperations were reported in both groups, but none attributed to glenoid implant failure. At 24 months postoperatively, Grade 1 metal debris was found in 6.5% of patients with a TM glenoid but did not negatively influence patient-reported outcomes. Longer-term follow-up is needed and is underway. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(9):728–736

Isolated liner and head exchange procedure has been an established treatment method for polyethylene wear and osteolysis when the acetabular component remains well-fixed. In this study, its mid-term results were evaluated retrospectively in 34 hips. Among the consecutive patients operated upon from September 1995, 2 patients (3 hips) were excluded because of inadequate follow-up and the results of remaining 34 hips of 34 patients were evaluated. They were 20 men and 14 women with a mean age of 49 years at the time of index surgery. Conventional polyethylene liner was used in 26 cases and highly cross-linked polyethylene liner was used in 8 cases. In 3 cases, liner was cemented in the metal shell because compatible liner could not be used. After a minimum follow-up of 5 years (range, 5∼20.2), re-revision surgery was necessary in 10 cases (29.4%); 8 for wear and osteolysis, 2 for acetabular loosening. In all re-revision cases, conventional polyethylene was used. There was no failure in the cases in which highly cross-linked polyethylene was used. There was no case complicated with dislocation. The results of this study suggest more promising results with the use of highly cross-linked polyethylene in isolated liner exchange

Objectives. Bone void fillers are increasingly being used for dead space management in arthroplasty revision surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of calcium sulphate bone void filler (CS-BVF) on the damage and wear of total knee arthroplasty using experimental wear simulation. Methods. A total of 18 fixed-bearing U2 total knee arthroplasty system implants (United Orthopedic Corp., Hsinchu, Taiwan) were used. Implants challenged with CS-BVF were compared with new implants (negative controls) and those intentionally scratched with a diamond stylus (positive controls) representative of severe surface damage (n = 6 for each experimental group). Three million cycles (MC) of experimental simulation were carried out to simulate a walking gait cycle. Wear of the ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) tibial inserts was measured gravimetrically, and damage to articulating surfaces was assessed using profilometry. Results. There was no significant difference (p  >  0.05) between the wear rate of implants challenged with CS-BVF (3.3 mm. 3. /MC (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.8 to 4.8)) and the wear rate of those not challenged (2.8 mm. 3. /MC (95% CI 1.3 to 4.3)). However, scratching the cobalt-chrome (CoCr) significantly (p < 0.001) increased the wear rate (20.6 mm. 3. /MC (95% CI 15.5 to 25.7)). The mean surface roughness of implants challenged with CS-BVF was equivalent to negative controls both after damage simulation (p = 0.98) and at the conclusion of the study (p = 0.28). Conclusion. When used close to articulating surfaces, a low-hardness, high-purity CS-BVF had no influence on wear. When trapped between the articulating surfaces of a total knee arthroplasty, CS-BVF did not scratch the surface of CoCr femoral components, nor did it increase the wear of UHMWPE tibial inserts compared with undamaged negative controls. Cite this article: R. M. Cowie, S. S. Aiken, J. J. Cooper, L. M. Jennings. The influence of a calcium sulphate bone void filler on the third-body damage and polyethylene wear of total knee arthroplasty. Bone Joint Res 2019;8:65–72. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.82.BJR-2018-0146.R1

Introduction: Highly cross-linked polyethylene acetabular cups and Oxinium femoral heads were developed to reduce wear debris induced osteolysis. Laboratory tests have shown less wear with these new materials. This RSA-study was performed to compare these new materials in vivo with conventional bearing materials used in total hip arthroplasty. Methods:150 patients were randomized to 5 groups. The patients received either a cemented Charnley mono-block stainless steel femoral stem with a 22.2 mm head or a cemented Spectron EF femoral stem with a 28 mm head. The Charnley stem articulated with a cemented Charnley Ogee acetabular cup. The Spectron EF stem was used with either cemented Reflection All-Poly EtO-sterilized ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) acetabular cups or cemented Reflection highly cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) acetabular cups, combined with either Cobalt Chrome or Oxinium 28 mm femoral heads. Patients were followed up with repeated radiostereometric analysis (RSA) for two years to assess the rate of penetration of the femoral head into the cup (MTPM). Results: At 2 years follow-up the mean MTPM (95 % CI) for Charnley Ogee (n=25) was 0.20 mm (0.11–0.29). For the Spectron EF femoral stem used with Reflection All-Poly UHMWPE acetabular cups the mean MTPM (CI) at 2 years was 0.40 mm (0.23–0.57) when combined with Cobalt Chrome femoral head (n=23) and 0.50 mm (0.29–0.71) when combined with Oxinium femoral head (n=16). When using the Spectron EF femoral stem with Reflection XLPE combined with Cobalt Chrome (n=27) or Oxinium (n=24) femoral head the mean MTPM (CI) at 2 years was 0.19 mm (0.10–0.28) and 0.18 mm (0.07–0.29), respectively. There were no differences in penetration between the Charnley/Ogee, XLPE/CoCr and XLPE/Oxinium groups (student t-test, p=0.5–0.8). There was no statistically significant difference between the two Reflection All-Poly UHMWPE groups (p=0.09). The groups with Reflection All-Poly cups had a statistically significant higher penetration than the three groups mentioned above (p< 0.001). Discussion: The use of Reflection XLPE cups instead of Reflection All-Poly cups reduced femoral head penetration at 2 years. We used the Charnley Ogee cup as a reference due to a long clinical record. This cup was superior to Reflection All-Poly, but not Reflection XLPE, regarding femoral head penetration. Because the femoral head of Charnley Ogee is smaller than the Oxinium/Cobalt Chrome head it might be more clinical relevant to measure volumetric wear. The groups with Oxinium heads did not have less wear than the groups with Cobalt Chrome heads after 2 years follow-up. Further follow-up is needed to evaluate the benefits, if any, of Oxinium femoral heads in the clinical setting

Introduction. The optimum UHMWPE orthopaedic implant bearing surface must balance wear, oxidation and fatigue resistance. Antioxidant polyethylene addresses free radicals, resulting from irradiation used in cross-linking, that could oxidize and potentially lead to fatigue damage under cycles of in vivo use. Assessing the effectiveness of antioxidant (AO) polyethylene compared to conventional gamma-sterilized or remelted highly cross-linked (HXL) polyethylene is necessary to set realistic expectations of the service lifetime of AO polyethylene in the knee. This study evaluates what short-term antioxidant UHMWPE retrievals can reveal about: (1) oxidation-resistance, and (2) fatigue-resistance of these new materials. Methods. An IRB-approved retrieval laboratory received 25 AO polyethylene tibial insert retrievals from three manufacturers with in vivo time of 0–3 years. These were compared with 20 conventional gamma-inert sterilized and 30 HXL (65-kGray, remelted) tibial inserts of the same in vivo duration range. The retrievals were. (1) analyzed for oxidation and trans-vinylene index (TVI) using an FTIR microscope, and (2) inserts of sufficient size and thickness were evaluated for mechanical properties by uniaxial tensile testing using an INSTRON load frame. Oxidation was reported as maximum oxidation measured in the scan from the articular surface to the backside of each bearing. TVI was reported as the average of all scans for each material. Average ultimate tensile strength (UTS), ultimate elongation (UE), and toughness were the reported mechanical properties for each material. Results. Maximum oxidation values differed significantly across material types (p=0.018, Figure 1). No antioxidant retrieval exhibited a subsurface oxidation peak, in contrast to conventional gamma-sterilized (55%) and highly cross-linked (37%) retrievals that exhibited subsurface oxidation peaks over the same in vivo time (Figure 2). Trans-vinylene index (TVI) correlated positively with nominal irradiation dose (p<0.001). Mechanical properties varied by material, with tensile toughness correlating negatively with increasing TVI (p<0.001, Figure 3). Discussion. AO polyethylene was developed to address the problem of free radicals in polyethylene resulting from irradiation used in cross-linking or sterilization. Each manufacturer used a different antioxidant or method of supplying the antioxidant. However, all of the antioxidant materials appeared to be effective at minimizing oxidation over the in vivo period of this study. The antioxidant materials prevented in vivo oxidation more effectively than both conventional gamma-sterilized and remelted HXL polyethylene, at least over the in vivo period represented. The toughness, or ability of the material to resist fatigue damage, decreased with increasing irradiation cross-linking dose (increasing TVI). The AO polyethylenes evaluated in this study had lower toughness than conventional gamma-sterilized polyethylene, but they avoided the loss of toughness due to remelting. Clinical relevance. Antioxidant polyethylene tibial retrievals showed superior oxidation resistance to conventional gamma-inert and remelted HXL inserts. Material toughness varied with the irradiation dose used to produce the material. Comparison of antioxidant retrieval tensile properties can be used as a guide for clinicians in choosing appropriate materials for the applications represented by their patients

Introduction. Despite the positive outcomes in shoulder joint replacements in the last two decades, polyethylene wear debris in metal-on-polyethylene artificial shoulder joints is well-known as a limitation in the long-term survival of shoulder arthroplasties systems. Consequently, there is an interest in the use of novel materials as an alternative to hard bearing surfaces such as pyrolytic carbon layer (PyroCarbon). Materials and Methods. In the present study, the unique Newcastle Shoulder Wear Simulator was used (Smith et al., 2015; Smith et al., 2016) to evaluate the wear behavior of four commercially available PyroCarbon humeral heads 43 mm diameter, articulating against conventional ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) glenoid inserts with a radius of curvature of 17.5 mm to form an anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty. A physiological combined cycled “Repeat-motion-load” (RML) (Ramirez-Martinez et al., 2019) obtained from the typical activities of daily life of patients with shoulder implants was applied as a simulator input. A fifth sample of the same size and design was used as a soak control and subjected to dynamic loading without motion during the wear test. The mean volumetric wear rate of PyroCarbon-on-polyethylene was evaluated over 5 million cycles gravimetrically and calculated on the basis of linear regression, as well as the change in surface roughness (S. a. ) of the components using a non-contacting white light profilometer throughout the test. Results. The gravimetric analysis showed a mean volumetric wear rate and standard deviation of 19.3±9.5 mm. 3. /million cycles for the UHMWPE glenoid inserts, whereas PyroCarbon humeral head counterparts did not exhibit a loss in mass throughout the test. The roughness values of the UHMWPE glenoid inserts decreased (P < .001), changing from 296±28 nm to 32±8 nm at the end of the test. In contrast, the PyroCarbon humeral heads did not show a significant change (P = .855) over the 5 million cycles; remained in the same range (21±2 nm to 20±10 nm) with no evidence of wear damage on the surface. Conclusions. This is the first in-vitro shoulder simulator study of a PyroCarbon on UHMWPE articulation. Wear rates were similar to that found to well-proven metal on UHMWPE shoulder arthroplasties. While it was interesting to see that the PyroCarbon did not roughen over the test duration, the lack of an appreciable reduction in wear of the UHMWPE component when articulated with an expensive and complex to manufacture PyroCarbon component likely means there is little clinical cost-benefit in the use of a PyroCarbon on UHMWPE shoulder implant. Declaration of competing interest. Prof. Ian A. Trail received some royalties and research support from Wright Medical Group N.V. None of the other authors, their immediate families, and any research foundation with which they are affiliated did not receive any financial payments or other benefits from any commercial entity related to the subject of this article. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Introduction. Aseptic loosening is a major cause of revision of total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Although crosslinked Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) have improved wear resistance, residual radicals remaining in the material have a possibility to increase bio-reactivity of particles [2]. In this study, we attempt to evaluate the effects of irradiation and residual radicals on bio-reactivity of the material with a new method called the inverse culture method [1]. Material and methods. UHMWPE particles (10µm diameter in average, Mitsui chemicals Co., LTD) along with irradiated particles (RAD, 300kGy electron irradiation) and particles annealed after the irradiation (RAD+ANN, 100°C 72 hours) are co-incubated with mouse macrophage cell line RAW264 using the inverse culture method. The amount of TNF-α was measured with ELISA. Results and discussion. The amount of TNF-α released by macrophages reacting with virgin UHMWPE, RAD and RAD+ANN is shown in Figure 1. The horizontal axis represents the total surface area of the particles. The coefficient of determination and inclination of the approximate curve are calculated to analyze the result. The coefficient of determination suggested that cytokines released from macrophage is dose-dependent to the surface area of polyethylene particles, which was consistent with the result of our former study[1]. We use the inclination of the approximation curve in Figure 1 as an index to evaluate the bio-reactivity. The values of the index of virgin, RAD and RAD+ANN were 21×10. -4. gLm. -2. , 100×10. -4. gLm. -2. and 59×10. -4. gLm. -2. The inclination of the approximation line of RAD is significantly larger than that of virgin (test for the difference of regression line angle). These suggest that the irradiation to UHMWPE particles increases their bio-reactivity possibly due to radicals. The increased reactivity cannot be eliminated by annealing (100°C 72 hours) completely. Conclusion. Although electron irradiation increases the bio-reactivity of UHMWPE particles, annealing after the irradiation can decrease it, but cannot restore to original reactivity. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly

Introduction. Selection of an optimum thickness of polyethylene insert in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is important for the good stability and range of motion (ROM). The purpose of this study is to investigate the amount of change of ROM as the thickness of trial insert increase. Material and Method. The study included 86 patients with 115 knees undergoing TKA from October 2012 to February 2014. There were 17 men and 69 women with an average age of 75±8 (58–92) years. The implants posterior stabilized knee (Scorpio NRG, Stryker) was used and all prostheses were fixed with cement. The ROM was measured by the goniometer under the general anesthesia at the time of operation in increments of 1°. Preoperative flexion angle was measured by passively flexing the patient's hip 90 degrees and allowing the weight of the leg to flex the knee joint (Lee et al 1998). Extension angle was measured by holding the heel and raising the leg by another examiner. During TKA, flexion and extension angle was measured in a similar manner when each insert trial (8, 10, 12, and 15mm) was inserted. After the wound closure and removing the draping, ROM was measured again. Statistical analysis of range of motion was performed using a paired t-test to determine significance. Results. Preoperative extension angle was-11.8±7.5°and flexion angle was 125.4±14.9 °. postoperative extension angle after removing drapes was −5.0±3.4°and flexion angle was126.4±8.8°. Although extension angle was improved statistically (p<0.001), flexion angle was not improved. Intraoperative extension and flexion angle that were measured with the same thick insert trial as the polyethylene insert finally selected was −3.7±3.0°and 120.8±9.8°respectively. The thickness of polyethylene insert finally set was 8mm (28knees), 10mm (58knee), 12mm (24 knee), and 15mm (5knee). The amount of deficit in extension ROM by changing the trial inserts those were measured intraoperatively were 2.5±2.2° (n=112, 8 to 10mm, p<0.01), 3.2±2.8° (n=80, 10 to 12mm, p< 0.01), and 4.7±2.5° (n=15, 12 to 15mm, p<0.01). Flexion angle was 0.6±4.3° (8 to 10mm, n.s), 1.5±4.0° (10 to 12mm, p=0.002), 2.6±4.0° (12 to 15mm, p=0.025). Discussion. Although it is important to select a sufficient thick polyethylene insert to prevent postoperative instability, excessive thick polyethylene can decrease ROM especially extension. In many type of prosthesis, thickness of polyethylene insert differs every 2 mm is prepared. In the current study, if the thickness of polyethylene is increased 2mm (8 to10mm and 10 to 12mm) or 3mm (12 to15mm), extension and flexion angle was decreased 2.5–4.7°and 0.6–2.6°respectively

Introduction. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a semi-constrained joint replacement with an articulating cobalt-chromium glenosphere and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (PE). Because of its limited load bearing, surgeons and implant manufacturers have not elicited the use of highly cross-linked PE in the shoulder, and to date have not considered excessive PE wear in the reverse shoulder a primary concern. As the number of shoulder procedures is expected to grow exponentially in the next decade, however, it is important to evaluate how new designs and bearing materials interact and to have an understanding of what is normal in well-functioning joint replacements. Currently, no in vivo investigation into RTSA PE wear has been conducted, with limited retrieval and simulation studies. In vitro and in silico studies demonstrate a large range in expected wear rates, from 14.3 mm. 3. /million cycles (MC) to 126 mm. 3. /MC, with no obvious relationship between wear rate and polyethylene diameter. The purpose of this study is to evaluate, for the first time, both volumetric and linear wear rates in reverse shoulder patients, with a minimum six-year follow-up using stereo radiographic techniques. Methods. To date, seven patients with a self-reported well-functioning Aequalis Reversed II (Wright Medical Group, Edina, MN, USA) RTSA implant system have been imaged (mean years from surgery = 7.0, range = 6.2 to 9). Using stereo radiographs, patients were imaged at the extents of their range of motion in internal and external rotation, lateral abduction, forward flexion, and with their arm at the side. Multiple arm positions were used to account for the multiple wear vectors associated with activities of daily living and the shoulder's six degrees of motion. Using proprietary software, the position and orientation of the polyethylene and glenosphere components were identified and their transformation matrices recorded. These transformation matrices were then applied to the CAD models of each component, respectively, and the apparent intersection of the glenosphere into the PE recorded. Using previously validated in-house software, volumetric and maximum linear wear depth measurements were obtained. Linear regression was used to identify wear rates. Results. The volumetric and linear wear rates for the 36 mm PE liners (n = 5) were 39 mm. 3. /y (r. 2. = 0.86, range = 24 to 42 mm. 3. /y) and 0.09 mm/y (r. 2. = 0.96, range = 0.08 to 0.11 mm/y), respectively. Only two patients with 42 mm PE liners were evaluated. For these, volumetric and linear wear rates were 110 mm. 3. /y (r. 2. = 0.81, range = 83 to 145 mm. 3. /y) and 0.17 mm/y (r. 2. = 0.99, range = 1.12 to 1.15 mm/y), respectively. Conclusion. For the first time, PE wear was evaluated in the reverse shoulder in vivo. More patients are required for conclusive statements, but preliminary results suggest first order volumetric and linear wear rates within those predicted by simulation studies. It is interesting to note the increased wear with larger PE size, likely due to the increased contact area between congruent faces and the potential for increased sliding distance during arm motion

Introduction. It has been shown in vitro that human monocytes can phagocytose submicron polyethylene wear particles generated from total hip arthroplasties (THA) with highly cross-linked polyethylene inlays. The aim of our study was to detect the presence and possible phagocytosis of such particles in peripheral blood monocytes of patients with respective THA. Patients and methods. All patients were operated using the same implant, the cementless SL Plus stem; Bicon cup and a cross-linked polyethylene insert Rexpol (Smith and Nephew). Besides clinical and radiographic check-up, blood samples were collected at follow-up and analyzed by flow cytometry. Polyethylene can be identified by its auto fluorescence when stimulated by a laser with the wavelength of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). Presence of wear particles in monocytes was identified by determination of their size and granularity. Some samples were scrutinized by confocal laser scanning microscopy to correlate the intracellular position of the particles. Blood samples of patients without total joint replacement served as controls. Results. 18 samples of patients with THA were compared to 18 controls. Flow cytometry didn't show any difference of size, granularity and auto fluorescence of the investigated cells between the two groups. Furthermore confocal laser scanning microscopy was unable to establish the intracellular position of the auto fluorescence. There were 11 female and 7 male patients with a mean age of 70,4 years at the time of surgery and an average body mass index of 32 (23 – 41). Average follow-up time was 6,5 years (6 – 8 years). 2 patients had been revised, one for a periprosthetic fracture postoperatively, the other for cup loosening at 5 years. Radiographically there were no signs of loosening. Conclusion. Flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy were unable to detect submicron polyethylene wear particles in human monocytes in vivo following THA. This could be due to a lack of sensitivity or/and specificity although the in vitro study showing phagocytosis of submicron particles in vitro applied the same methods. The analysis could be too early if the number of wear particles hasn't possibly reached a critical mass at 6.5 years. Potentially the conclusion of the in vitro study is inapplicable and human monocytes are unable to phagocytose polyethylene wear particles. In any case further research in this field seems necessary

Background. Polyethylene wear in both cemented and uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) lead to generation of particles with their access to the interface which has been responsible for periprosthetic osteolysis and subsequent loosening of cup and stem. Many studies have been published studying the pattern of polyethylene wear and its relation to the type of implant (cemented/ uncemented cup or ceramic/metal head) used. No study in our knowledge has strictly focused on the effect of cemented versus uncemented stem on the polyethylene wear rates. We tried to compare the polyethylene wear rates reckoned with software (Poly Ware REV 7) of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in hybrid and uncemented THA and its effect on complications of total hip replacements. Method. We retrospectively reviewed pre-matched 56 patients in uncemented group with 112 patients in hybrid group on the basis of polyethylene wear rate, revision rates and clinical issues, with mean follow up of 9.42 and 7.25 years (yrs.) respectively. Results. Mean polyethylene wear rate in uncemented group was 0.048 milli metres per year (mm/yr.) and it was 0.082 mm/yr. in hybrid. Wear rate in hybrid group ceramic head (0.072mm/yr.) was significant when compared to wear rate ceramic head in uncemented group (0.053mm/yr.), also we found significant difference of poly wear in the metallic group as well. There was no difference in stem loosening and cup osteolysis in low wear (<.05 mm/yr.) and high wear group (>.05mm/yr.) in both uncemented and hybrid THA. Conclusion. The revision was significantly higher in uncemented group but when adjusted with the age, it is equivocal. We found significant difference in polyethylene wear rates, but no significant difference in clinical performance and revisions among the two groups of uncemented THA and hybrid THA when compared on a mid-term 8 to 10 yrs. Follow up. Keywords. Total Hip Arthroplasty; Polywear; Uncemented THA; Hybrid THA

Increased femoral head size reduces the rate of dislocation after total hip arthroplasty (THA). With the introduction of highly crosslinked polyethylene (HXLPE) liners in THA there has been a trend towards using larger size femoral heads in relatively smaller cup sizes, theoretically increasing the risk of liner fracture, wear, or aseptic loosening. Short to medium follow-up studies have not demonstrated a negative effect of using thinner HXLPE liners. However, there is concern that these thinner liners may prematurely fail in the long-term, especially in those with thinner liners. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term survival and revision rates of HXLPE liners in primary THA, as well as the effect of liner thickness on these outcomes. We hypothesized that there would be no significant differences between the different liner thicknesses. We performed a retrospective database analysis from a single center of all primary total hip replacements using HXLPE liners from 2010 and earlier, including all femoral head sizes. All procedures were performed by fellowship trained arthroplasty surgeons. Patient characteristics, implant details including liner thickness, death, and revisions (all causes) were recorded. Patients were grouped for analysis for each millimeter of PE thickness (e.g. 4.0-4.9mm, 5.0-5.9mm). Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were estimated with all-cause and aseptic revisions as the endpoints. A total of 2354 patients (2584 hips) were included (mean age 64.3 years, min-max 19-96). Mean BMI was 29.0 and 47.6% was female. Mean follow-up was 13.2 years (range 11.0-18.8). Liner thickness varied from 4.9 to 12.7 mm. Seven patients had a liner thickness <5.0mm and 859 had a liner thickness of <6.0mm. Head sizes were 28mm (n=85, 3.3%), 32mm (n=1214, 47.0%), 36mm (n=1176, 45.5%), and 40mm (n=109, 4.2%), and 98.4% were metal heads. There were 101 revisions, and in 78 of these cases the liner was revised. Reason for revision was instability/dislocation (n=34), pseudotumor/aseptic lymphocyte-dominant vasculitis associated lesion (n=18), fracture (n=17), early loosening (n=11), infection (n=7), aseptic loosening (n=4), and other (n=10). When grouped by liner thickness, there were no significant differences between the groups when looking at all-cause revision (p=0.112) or aseptic revision (p=0.116). In our cohort, there were no significant differences in all-cause or aseptic revisions between any of the liner thickness groups at long-term follow-up. Our results indicate that using thinner HXPE liners to maximize femoral head size in THA does not lead to increased complications or liner failures at medium to long term follow-up. As such, orthopedic surgeons can consider the use of larger heads at the cost of liner thickness a safe practice to reduce the risk of dislocation after THA when using HXLPE liners

Lewinnek's safe zone recommendation to minimise dislocations was a target of 5–25° for anteversion angle and 30–50° for inclination angle. Subsequently, it was demonstrated that mal-positioning of the acetabular cup can also lead to edge loading, liner fracture, and greater conventional polyethylene wear. The purpose of this study was to measure the effect of acetabular cup position on highly crosslinked polyethylene wear in total hip arthroplasty (THA) at long-term follow-up. We identified all patients that underwent primary THA with a minimum of 10 years follow-up using an institutional database in London, Ontario, Canada. Patients with a single implant design consisting of a 28 mm cobalt chromium head and highly crosslinked polyethylene liner (ram extruded, GUR 1050, 100 kGy gamma irradiated, remelted, ethylene oxide sterilised) were selected for inclusion. In total, 85 hips from 79 recruited patients were analysed. Patients underwent a supine radiostereometric analysis (RSA) exam in which the x-ray sources and detectors were positioned to obtain an anterior-posterior and cross-table lateral radiograph. Acetabular cup anteversion angle, inclination angle, and 3D penetration rate (including wear and creep) were measured from the stereo radiograph pairs. At a mean follow-up of 13 years (range, 10–17 years) the mean penetration rate was 0.059 mm/year (95% CI: 0.045 to 0.073 mm/year). Mean anteversion angle was 18.2° (range, −14 to 40°) and mean inclination angle was 43.6° (range, 27 to 61°). With respect to the Lewinnek safe zone, 67% hips met the target for anteversion angle, 77% met the target for inclination angle, and 51% met the target for both. There was no correlation between anteversion angle and penetration rate (r = −0.14, p = 0.72) or between inclination angle and penetration rate (r = 0.11, p = 0.35). There was also no difference (p = 0.07) in penetration rate between hips located within the Lewinnek safe zone for both anteversion angle and inclination angle (mean 0.057 mm/year, 95% CI: 0.036 to 0.079 mm/year) and those outside the safe zone (mean 0.062 mm/year, 95% CI: 0.042 to 0.083 mm/year). Acetabular cup position had no effect on the wear rate of highly crosslinked polyethylene at long-term follow-up. Although care should still be taken to correctly position the acetabular cup for stability, highly crosslinked polyethylene is a forgiving bearing material that can withstand a wide range of cup positions without negatively impacting longevity due to wear

Background. Wear simulation in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is currently based on the most frequent activity – level walking. A decade ago multi-station knee wear simulators were introduced leading to optimisations of TKA designs, component surface finish and bearing materials. One major limitation is that current wear testing is mainly focused on abrasive-adhesive wear and in vitro testing does not reflect “delamination” as an essential clinical failure mode. The objective of our study was to use a highly demanding daily activities wear simulation to evaluate the delamination risk of polyethylene materials with and without vitamin E stabilisation. Methods. A cruciate retaining fixed bearing TKA design (Columbus CR) with artificially aged polyethylene knee bearings (irradiation 30±2 kGy) blended with and without 0.1% vitamin E was used under medio-lateral load distribution and soft tissue restrain simulation. Daily patient activities with high flexion (2×40% stairs up and down, 10% level walking, 8% chair raising, 2% deep squatting) were applied for 5 million cycles. The specimens were evaluated for gravimetric wear and analysed for abrasive-adhesive and delamination wear modes. Results. The total amount of gliding surface wear was 28.7±1.9 mg for the vitamin E stabilised polyethylene compared to 355.9±119.8 mg for the standard material. The combination of artificial ageing and high demanding knee wear simulation leads to visible signs of delamination in the articulating bearing areas in vitro. Conclusion. To evaluate Vitamin E stabilised polyethylenes in regard to ageing and wear behaviour in vitro, conditions are simulated to create clinical relevant failure modes in the reference material

Introduction. Highly cross-linked (HXL) polyethylene has demonstrated clinical advantages as a wear resistant acetabular bearing material in total hip arthroplasty (THA) [1]. In vitro wear testing has predicted a tenfold reduction in the wear rate of HXL polyethylene, as compared to its conventional, non-HXL counterpart [2]. To date, radiographic studies of head penetration represent the state-of-the-art in determining clinical wear of polyethylene hip liners [3]. However, as the amount of wear drops to very low levels, it becomes important to develop a precise and reliable method for measuring wear, facilitating a comparison of clinical results to expectations. This study focuses on locating and quantifying the maximum linear wear of retrieved acetabular poly liners using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). Specifically, HXL liners are compared to a baseline of conventional, non-HXL bearings. Methods. An IRB-approved retrieval laboratory received 63 HXL acetabular bearing retrievals from 5 manufacturers with in vivo durations of 1.01–14.85 years. These were compared with 32 conventional, non-HXL controls (including gas plasma, gamma-barrier and EtO) from 3 manufacturers with in vivo durations of 1.03–20.89 years. Liners were mounted in a tripod of axial contacts with the liner face positioned in a vertical plane. Each bearing was scanned with a CMM dual-probe head, with one horizontal probe scanning the articular surface and the other scanning the non-articular, sequentially. Surface-normal wall thickness values along each latitude were calculated using a custom developed algorithm (Figure 1). Because the liners are axially symmetric as manufactured, deviation in wall thickness at a given latitude represents linear wear [4]. Results. Total wear penetration for the HXL liners ranged from 0.02 to 1.03 mm, and for the conventional, non-HXL controls ranged from 0.07 to 6.85 mm. The HXL liners had an average linear wear rate of 0.02 mm/year, compared to 0.20 mm/year for the conventional, non-HXL controls (Figure 2). The direction of maximum wear, as measured in degrees from the cup pole, ranged from 8.32 to 73.86 degrees. Differences in wear rates as a function of crosslinking dose, as well as presence/absence of a lip can be identified. Discussion. This wear measurement study of retrievals is the first application of a novel CMM technique to locate and quantify wear in HXL liners compared to conventional polyethylene controls. The study confirms the expectations of a tenfold reduction in wear rates that were based on in vitro testing [2]. The results are consistent with those of radiographic studies that have documented lower wear of HXL polyethylene in the hip compared to conventional polyethylene [3]. However, the current technique offers higher precision and reliability, and eliminates the large proportion of negative wear measurements common amongst radiographic methods. A sufficient number of liners have been measured to begin to differentiate wear between different radiation doses

The purpose of this investigation is to assess the rate of wear the effect once the “bedding in period”/ poly creep had been eliminated. Creep is the visco-elastic deformation that polyethylene exhibits in the first 6–12 weeks. We also assessed the wear pattern of four different bearing couples in total hip arthroplasty (THA): cobalt-chrome (CoCr) versus oxidized zirconium (OxZir) femoral heads with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) versus highly-crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) acetabular liners. This was a randomized control study involving 92 patients undergoing THA. They were randomized to one of four bearing couples: (1) CoCr/UHMWPE (n= 23), (2) OxZir/UHMWPE (n=21), (3) CoCr/XLPE (n=24), (4) OxZir/XLPE (n=24). Patients underwent a posterior approach from one of three surgeons involved in the study. All patients received a porous-coated cementless acetabular shell and a cylindrical proximally coated stem with 28 mm femoral heads. Each patient was reviewed clinically and radiographically at six weeks, three and 12 months, two, five and 10 years after surgery. Standardized anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were taken. All polyethylene wear was measured by an independent blinded reviewer. Linear and volumetric wear rates were measured on radiographs using a validated computer software (Polyware Rev. 5). Creep was defined as the wear at 6 or 12 weeks, depending on if there was a more than 10% difference between both measurements. If a greater than 10% difference occurred than the later period's wear would be defined as creep. 72 hips were included in analysis after exclusion of seven revisions, three deaths and 10 losses to follow-up. The annual linear wear rates (in mm/y) at 10 years were (1) 0.249, (2) 0.250, (3) 0.074 and (4) 0.050. After adjusting for creep these rates become were (1) 0.181, (2) 0.142, (3) 0.040 and (4) 0.023. There is statistical differences between raw and adjusted linear wear rates for all bearing couples. The percentage of the radiographically measured wear at 10 years due to creep is (1) 30% (2) 44%, (3) 58.5% and (4) 51.5% with significant differences in couples with XLPE versus those with UHMWPE. There was no significant correlation between age, gender, cup size, tilt, planar anteversion and the linear or volumetric wear rates. The linear wear rate of both UHMWPE and XLPE are even lower thxdsxzan previously described when creep is factored out. XLPE has again demonstrated far superior linear wear rates at 10 years than UHMWPE. There were no significant differences in wear rate at 10 years between CoCr and OxZir, this may be due to an underpowered study. XLPE exhibits proportionally more creep than UHMWPE within the first 6–12 weeks and accounts for more of the total wear at 10 years as measured radiographically at the end period

Background. Although the wear of conventional polyethylene liner becomes a serious problem in a long term follow up after total knee arthroplasty, there are few reports of measuring the polyethylene wear. Questions/purposes. Is it possible to measure the linear wear rates in the non-cross-linked polyethylene liner used in the Press Fit Condylar (PFC) Sigma total knee system? Does the polyethylene wear influence on the clinical results?. Patients and Methods. The senior author and his colleagues performed total knee arthroplasties using the PFC knee system between 1997 and 2009. A follow-up was performed at minimum of 6 years after surgery, and 113 knee replacements (Female: 59 including 93 knee replacements, Male: 16 including 20 knee replacements) were clinically assessed and examined using X-ray imaging. An X-ray table was useful to make the X-ray accurately enter the tibial component at a parallel angle for anteroposterior image of radiograph when measuring the wear on knee prosthesis (Fig.1). The average follow-up period was 11.5 ± 3.4 years (range: 6.0–17.0) postoperatively. Results. There was no loosening found in the knee prostheses. However, revision surgery was performed for a case with consistent varus instability. The wear rate in the polyethylene liner was an average of 0.08 ± 0.07 (range, 0.01–0.26) mm/year on the medial joint and 0.04 ± 0.03 (range, 0.0–0.11) mm/year on the lateral joint with significant difference. The X-ray imaging was useful to measure the wear accurately. Conclusion. The medium-to-long term clinical results of the PFC Sigma Design total knee system with minor changes added have been good thus far for almost 20 years. The wear rate in the non-cross-linked polyethylene liner was very low. In the future, the extra long-term results will need to be researched further. <Figure Legend>. Fig. 1 Measurement of polyethylene wear of the prosthetic knee joint. All measurements on the radiographs of the two-dimensional position of the polyethylene liner were performed by a single researcher with use of a computerized measurement system which had a computerized digitizer with an accuracy of ± 0.01 mm. Only the anteroposterior radiographs of the knee joint were used for the measurements. The thickness of polyethylene liner was measured in both the lateral (a) and medial (b) parts of the liner in each radiograph with correction of magnification by known tibial component medial-lateral diameter (c). The polyethylene wear rate was determined by comparing the thickness in the follow-up radiograph with the thickness in the initial three-week postoperative radiograph at the same locations. The thickness of the polyethylene was measured at its shortest distance in the same flexion angle of the knee joints. For any figures or tables, please contact authors directly (see Info & Metrics tab above).

Introduction. Wear debris induced osteolysis and loosening continue to cause clinical failure in total knee replacement (TKR). To improve longevity and reduce wear alternative materials have been examined. Carbon-fibre-reinforced poly–ether-ether-ketone (CFR-PEEK) has shown promising results in wear studies [1–2]. The aim of this study was to explore the use of CFR-PEEK and PEEK as alternative bearing materials for polyethylene in TKR through experimental knee joint wear simulation. Methods. Two novel materials were studied as an alternative to polyethylene as the tibial bearing surface in a TKR configuration using a Cobalt chrome femoral bearing in current clinical use. Six right Sigma CR fixed bearing TKRs (DePuy Synthes, UK) were paired with either PEEK or CFR-PEEK custom-made flat inserts (Invibio, UK) in a Prosim knee simulator (Simulator Solutions, UK). The tibial inserts were 14mm thick, to give an equivalent thickness to existing insert designs. A flat geometry was selected as this has previously been shown to yield low wear in polyethylene bearings [3]. The tests were conducted under High Kinematics, with anterior-posterior and internal-external displacement control [4]. Tests were conducted for three million cycles, lubricated with 25% bovine serum, with wear assessed gravimetrically at 1 and 3Mc. Images of the wear scars were recorded at completion of the study. Visual inspection of the tibial inserts was used to identify regions of wear damage for SEM analysis (EVO MA15-Smart SEM, Zeiss, Germany). Results. Extremely large material loss and wear was observed for both PEEK and CFR-PEEK inserts at 3Mc (Figure 1). The PEEK material showed higher volumetric loss than the CFR-PEEK. Wear rates of >200mm. 3. /Mc compare with less than 4 mm. 3. /Mc for polyethylene under the same conditions. [3]. Large, deep wear scars were observed on all plates (Figure 2a and b). Evidence of mechanical material failure was observed through SEM including material cracking, deformation and fibre pull-out (Figure 3a and b). Discussion. Wear simulator testing of flat PEEK and CFR-PEEK as potential replacements for polyethylene materials in a TKR configuration produced high material loss after 3Mc. This is in contrast to promising data reported in another study of the knee [5]. The present study examined a low-conformity condition. Previous studies have included hip and highly-conforming TKR designs; therefore the contact pressures would be lower than the current study. This study highlights these new materials may undergo mechanical failure at higher contact stress conditions

Introduction. Highly cross-linked polyethylene has been introduced to decrease osteolysis secondary to polyethylene wear debris generation, but there are few long-term data on revision total hip arthroplasty using highly cross-linked polyethylene liners. The purpose of this study was to report the long-term radiographic and clinical outcomes of a highly cross-linked polyethylene liner in revision total hip arthroplasty. Materials & Methods. We analyzed 63 revision total hip arthoplasties that were performed in 63 patients using a highly cross-linked polyethylene liner between April 2000 and February 2005. Of these, nine died and four were lost to follow-up before the end of the 10-year evaluation. Thus, the final study cohort consisted of 50 patients (50 hips). There were 26 males and 24 females with a mean age at time of revision total hip arthoplasty of 53 years (range, 27–75 years). Mean duration of follow-up was 11 years (range, 10–14 years). Results. Mean Harris hip score improved from 44 points preoperatively to 85 points at final follow-up. No radiographic evidence of osteolysis was found in any hip. One hip required re-revision surgery for acetabular cup loosening at 6.5 years postoperatively. One required re-revision with a constrained liner because of recurrent dislocation. Three sustained deep infections requiring additional surgical procedures. Kaplan-Meier survivorship with an end point of re-revision for any reason was 91.0% and for aseptic cup loosening was 97.9% at 11 years (Figs. 1 and 2). Conclusions. At a minimum of 10 years, the highly cross-linked polyethylene liners showed excellent clinical performance and implant survivorship, and were not associated with osteolysis in our group of patients with revision total hip arthoplasties

Studies that have previously examined the relationship between inclination angle and polyethylene wear have shown increased wear of conventional polyethylene with high inclination angles. To date, there have been no long term in vivo studies examining the correlation between cup position and polyethylene wear with highly crosslinked polyethylene. An institutional arthroplasty database was used to identify patients who had metal-on-highly crosslinked polyethylene primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) using the same component design with a minimum follow up of 10 years ago. A modified RSA examination setup was utilised, recreating standard anteroposterior (AP) and cross-table lateral exams in a single biplane RSA acquisition. Three dimensional head penetration was measured using the centre index method. The same radiographs were used to measure inclination angle and anteversion. Spearman correlation was used to show an association between the parameters of acetabular position and wear rate. A total of 43 hips were included for analysis in this study. Average follow-up was 12.3 ± 1.2 years. The average linear wear rate was calculated to be 0.066 ± 0.066 mm/year. Inclination angle was not correlated with polyethylene wear rate (p=0.82). Anteversion was also not correlated with polyethylene wear rate (p=0.11). There was no statistical difference between wear rates of hips within Lewinnek's “safe zone” and those outside this “safe zone” (p=0.11). Males had a higher wear rate of 0.094 ± 0.089 mm/year compared to females with a wear rate of 0.046 ± 0.032 mm/year (p=0.045). At long term follow up of greater than 10 years, highly cross linked polyethylene has very low wear rates. This excellent tribology is independent of acetabular position, but gender did impact wear rates. Due to the low wear rates, follow-up of even longer term is suggested to examine variables affecting wear