The authors did not receive grants or outside funding in support of their research or preparation of this manuscript. They did not receive any payments or make agreements to provide such benefit from a commercial entity. No commercial entity paid or directed, or agreed to pay or direct, any benefits to any research fund, foundation, educational institution, or other non profit organization with which the authors are affiliated or associated.

Background: We observed early osteolysis and loosening of the rough surface-cement stem with a second generation metal-on-metal articulation. This study was to investigate the possible etiologic role of stem loosening and osteolysis by examination of the surface of the rough blast cement and related periprosthetic tissues that have been retrieved at revision.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 39 hips (37 patients) with use of metasul metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty. Of the femoral stem, rough surface-cement stem used in 18 hips and cementless Ti-alloy stem in 21 hips. The mean duration of follow-up was 10.2 years. Of these eight rough blast cement stem were revised, seven in loosening and one in recurrent dislocation. By using energy disperse spectroscope and back scattered electron image, histologic studies were performed to the samples of periprosthetic tissues. Skin patch tests for metal hypersensitivity were done to select patients.

Results: All of cementless stems and cups showed excellent results at the last follow-up. However, eight cement hips were revised. Light microscopy showed polishing effect on retrieval femoral stem affected by the rotational force. EDS and BSE image revealed that there were abundant cement and related metal particles with size of 5-10μm. However there were few metal particles and had greater size (20–100μm) in periprosthetic tissues. Histologic finding shows perivascular infiltration of lymphocytes and accumulation of macrophages No relation was found between skin patch test and loosening.

Conclusion: These findings raise the possibility that early osteolysis and loosening in patients with metal-on-metal hip replacement were associated with rough blast surface cement stem. These mixed particles such as Fe and Zr maybe trigger lymphocytic reactivity suggestive delayed type hypersensitive reaction. This study suggests that cement stem which have rough blasted surface should be considered in metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic level III-1(case-control study). See instructions to authors for a complete description of level of evidence.

Metal on metal total hip arthroplasty provides the potential improvement in articular wear and the use of large-diameter femoral heads following the prospect for reduction in the risk of dislocation. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes as well as serum metal ion level between the two different component designs with small and large femoral heads in metal on metal total hip arthroplasty. We studied 39 patients with large head (Magnum®, Biomet; cup size minus 6 mm) and 37 patients with small head (M2a taper®, Biomet; 28 or 32 mm head) of metal on metal total hip arthroplasty between December 2009 to October 2011 with follow-up of 2.1 years (1.0–3.3 years) after surgery. Harris Hip Score, UCLA activity score, EQ-5D, radiographic assessment, and serum cobalt and chromium ion levels were evaluated. Harris Hip Score, UCLA activity score, and EQ-5D were improved after surgery in small and large head groups, however, no significant differences were observed between both groups. Cup inclination was below 50 degree in all prosthesis. No loosening and no osteolysis were observed. Cobalt and chromium ion was not detected before surgery; however, metal ion levels of both groups were increased after surgery in time dependent manner. There was no significant difference between two groups at one year after surgery. One patient in each group showed the increase of cobalt ion level over 7 ppb (15.4 ppb, 12.9 ppb) without any clinical symptom including pain. Cup inclination was 29 degree in both patients and cup anteversion was 38 and 41 degree, respectively. There was no significant difference of ion levels between both groups. No dislocation was observed in large head group while one dislocation occurred in small head group. No patients required the revision surgery. This metal on metal component, especially with large femoral heads, showed the good clinical results at the maximum follow up of 3.3 year after surgery. However, the ion level of two patients increased over 7 ppb and longer follow-up will be needed

This study reports the mid-term results of a large bearing uncemented metal on metal total hip replacement (MOMHTHR) matched series using the Synergy stem and Birmingham modular head in 36 hips (mean follow up 61 months). All patients underwent clinical, metal ion and MRI assessment. Wear analysis was performed on retrieved heads using Redlux non-contact optical profilometry. Seven patients (19%) have undergone revision surgery. All revisions had two or more of either symptoms, high metal ions or an MRI suggestive of an adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD). There was no evidence of component malposition or impingement. Frank staining of tissues together with high volume dark brown fluid collections were found in all cases. All stems and cups were well fixed. In 4 cases pubic and ischial lysis (adjacent to the inferior fins) was observed. All 7 cases had radiological, intraoperative and histological evidence of ARMD (Figure 1). The failure cohort had significantly higher whole blood cobalt ion levels and OHS (p = 0.001), but no significant difference in cup size (p = 0.77), gender predominance, stem offset or cup position (p = 0.12). Sleeves had been used in all revision cases. Wear analysis (n = 4) demonstrated increased wear at the trunnion/sleeve interface in a distribution compatible with micromotion (Figure 2). There was normal wear at the articulating surface. This series further demonstrates unacceptable failure rates in LHMOMTHR in a series where a compatible stem for the BHR modular head was used. Use of a CoCr sleeve within a CoCr head taper appears to contribute to abnormal wear and therefore potential ARMD and subsequent failure

This study reports the mid-term results of a large bearing hybrid metal on metal total hip replacement (MOMHTHR) in 199 hips (185 patients) with mean follow up of 62 months. Clinical, radiological, metal ion and retrieval analysis were performed. Seventeen patients (8.6%) had undergone revision, and a further fourteen are awaiting surgery (defined in combination as failures). Twenty one (68%) failures were females. All revisions and ten (71%) awaiting revision were symptomatic. Twenty four failures (86%) showed progressive radiological changes. Fourteen revision cases showed evidence of adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD). The failure cohort had significantly higher whole blood cobalt ion levels (p=0.001), but no significant difference in cup size (p=0.77), inclination (p=0.38) or cup version (p=0.12) compared to the non revised cohort. Female gender was associated with increased risk of failure (p=0.04). Multifactorial analysis demonstrated isolated raised Co levels in the absence of symptoms or XR changes were not predictive of failure (p=0.675). However the presence of pain (p<0.001) and XR changes (p<0.001) in isolation were significant predictors of failure. Wear analysis (n=5) demonstrated increased wear at the trunnion/head interface (mean out of roundness measurements 34.5 microns (normal range 8–10 microns) with normal wear levels at the articulating surfaces. Macroscopically corrosion was evident at the proximal and distal stem surfaces. Cumulative survival rate, with revision for any reason was 92.4% (95%CI: 87.4–95.4) at 5 years. Including those awaiting surgery, the revision rate would be 15.1% with 89.6% (95% CI: 83.9–93.4). Cumulative survival at 5 years. This MOMHTHR series has demonstrated unacceptable high failure rates with evidence of high wear at the head/trunnion interface and passive corrosion to the stem surface. Female gender was an independent risk factor of failure. Metal ion levels remain a useful aspect of the investigation work up but in isolation are not predictive of failure

This study reports the mid-term results of a large bearing hybrid metal on metal total hip replacement (MOMHTHR) in 199 hips (185 patients) with mean follow up of 62 months. Clinical, radiological outcome, metal ion levels and retrieval analysis were performed. Seventeen patients (8.6%) had undergone revision, and a further fourteen are awaiting surgery (defined in combination as failures). Twenty one (68%) failures were females. All revisions and ten (71%) of those awaiting revision were symptomatic. Twenty four failures (86%) showed progressive radiological changes. Fourteen revision cases showed evidence of adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD). The failure cohort had significantly higher whole blood cobalt ion levels (p=0.001), but no significant difference in cup size (p=0.77), inclination (p=0.38) or cup version (p=0.12) in comparison to the non revised cohort. Female gender was associated with an increased risk of failure (chi squared p=0.04). Multifactorial analysis demonstrated isolated raised Co levels in the absence of either symptoms or XR changes was not predictive of failure (p=0.675). However both the presence of pain (p<0.001) and XR changes (p<0.001) in isolation were both significant predictors of failure. Wear analysis (n=5) demonstrated increased wear at the trunnion/head interface (mean out of roundness measurements of 34.5 microns +/−13.3 (+/−2SD, normal range 8-10 microns) with normal levels of wear at the articulating surfaces. There was evidence of corrosion at the proximal and distal stem surfaces. The cumulative survival rate, with revision for any reason was 92.4% (95%CI: 87.4-95.4) at 5 years. Including those awaiting surgery, the revision rate would be 15.1% with cumulative survival at 5 years of 89.6% (95% CI: 83.9-93.4). This MOMHTHR series has demonstrated unacceptable high failure rates with evidence of high wear at the head/trunnion interface and passive corrosion to the stem surface. This raises concern with the use of large heads on conventional 12/14 tapers. Female gender was an independent risk factor of failure. Metal ion levels remain a useful aspect of the investigation work up but in isolation are not predictive of failure

Introduction

The biological pathways responsible for adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD) are unknown. Necrotic and inflammatory changes in response to Co-Cr nanoparticles in periprosthetic tissues may involve both a cytotoxic response and a type IV delayed hypersensitivity response.

Our aim was to establish whether differences in biological cascade activation exists in tissues of patients with end-stage OA compared to those with aseptic loosening of a metal on polyethylene (MoP) THR and those with ARMD from metal-on-metal (MoM) THR.

Fracture of the acetabulum can lead to degenerative arthritis of the hip, avascular necrosis of the femoral head, or both. Total hip arthroplasty is a common form of surgical treatment when significant joint changes and pain are present.

Ten patients with fracture acetabulum were treated in this study using metal on metal total hip arthoplasty. The initial fracture was posterior wall fracture in one patient, posterior column fracture in one patient, transverse fracture in 2 patients, fracture dislocation in 3 patients and fracture posterior wall and column in 3 patients. The indications of arthroplasty were secondry osteoarthritis after internal fixation or after conservative management or collapse of the femoral head. Arthroplasty was done after an average period of 1.8 years (range from 1 to 4 years).

After a follow up period ranged from 3 to 7 years with a mean of 4.6 years, the Harris hip score was improved from a mean of 51 (range 20 to 65) to a mean of 92.5 (range 90 to 95). Infection occurred in one case and two stages revision was done. Another case developed loosening of the acetabular component and was revised using cementless cup fixed with screws and bone graft.

Metal on metal THR after acetabular fracture are relatively uncomplicated and lead to a good outcome despite the difficulties faced during the procedure.

One hundred fifty one total hip arthroplasty (THA) with metal on metal hip system of without cement were followed at a mean of 5. 5 years (range 2. 6 years to 7 years). Original diseases were 134 hip in 123 cases with osteoarthritis and 17 hips in 13 with rheumatoid arthritis. The average Harris hip score of before the operation was 45. 3 points and at the follow-up time the average score was 88. 5 points.

Radiographic findings in the incidence of partial radiolucent line around the component: in the acetabular component, no radiolucent line was observed, in the femoral component, marginal lucent lines were 8. 6% (13 hips). Cortical hypertrophy was observed in high ratio of 27. 2%(41 hips). There was no loosening and tilt of component over 5 degrees observed in any patient. Postoperative dislocation of the hip was observed 9 hips (6. 0%).

Cobalt concentrations and chromium concentration in the serum were measured in cases in metal on metal total hip, metal on poly arthroplasty and in controls without implants. Serum was assayed using graphite furnaces atomic absorption spectrophotometer. No patients were seen of elevation in serum cobalt and chromium concentrations.

The authors conclude that THA with metal on metal system has presented excellent results for mid term follow-up in our hospital.

INTRODUCTION

The risk of dislocation in large diameter metal on metal hip replacement is significantly lower than in standard THR. This is due to the increased primary arc, increased jump distance and possibly a suction effect. Our unit has performed over 1500 of these cases with an overall revision rate of <1%. We report a case series of dislocations in 5 large diameter metal on metal hips undertaken at our unit.

Introduction

We conducted independent wear analysis of retrieved metal on metal (MoM) hip components from around the world. All patients with resurfaced hips who developed adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD) were found to have increased wear of the bearing surfaces. This was untrue in patients with large diameter (?36mm) MoM total hip replacements. This led us to search for other factors leading to ARMD.

Introduction: Several studies have shown the presence of cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) ions in blood, urine, and organs of patients after THA using Co-Cr alloy-based implants. Even though it is well known that exposure to heavy metals may lead to significant alterations in human sperm morphology and motility, less is known on the effect of Co and Cr on semen parameters after metal on metal (MOM) hip replacement.

Methods: Semen was collected form 10 patients between 41 and 49 years old (mean=45.9±3.0 years) by masturbation after 2–3 days of abstinence. The time of implantation varied from 1 to 9 years (mean=5.1±3.9 years). Samples were collected in a sterile container and examined within 1h after ejaculation for morphology, motility, and number of sperm cells following standard criteria. All patients were doing well at their follow-up visits (Harris Hip Score=94±4; UCLA activity a score=7±1) and no sign of osteolysis was observed on X-rays.

Co and Cr concentrations were measured in both the seminal plasma and in the blood of patients by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS).

Results: results showed that the levels of Co in the seminal plasma and the blood of the patients were not statistically different. However, the level of Cr was significantly lower in the seminal plasma than in the blood of the patients. The ejaculate volume (2.1 ±0.6 ml), the sperm density (66±53 x 106), the total sperm count (151±75 x 106/ml), the pH (8), and the percentage of normal morphology (46±18%) were in the range of the WHO criteria for fertile population and also in the range of reference patients in the city of measurements. However, the viability was lower than that observed in a fertile population without prosthesis (41±19%).

Conclusions: results of the present study strongly suggest that both Co and Cr ions crossover to the semen but that their concentrations were too low to significantly affect sperm parameters of young patients with MM prosthesis. Further longitudinal studies are however necessary to conclusively determine the effect of metal ions from MM prosthesis on sperm parameters.

In vitro the introduction of microseparation and edge loading to hip simulator gait cycle has replicated clinically relevant wear rates and wear mechanisms in ceramic-on-ceramic bearings^[1], and elevated the wear rates of MoM surface replacements (SR) to levels similar to those observed in retrievals^[2]. The aim was to assess the wear of two different sized MoM total hip replacement bearings under steep cup inclination angles and adverse microseparation and edge loading conditions.

Two tests were performed on the Leeds II hip joint simulator using two different size bearings (28mm and 36mm). Cups were mounted to provide inclination angles of 45 degrees (n=3) and 65 degrees (n=3). The first three million cycles were under standard gait conditions. Microseparation and edge loading conditions as described by Nevelos et al^[1] were introduced to the gait cycle for the subsequent three million cycles. The lubricant was 25% new born calf serum. The mean wear rates and 95% confidence limits were determined and statistical analysis was performed using One Way ANOVA.

Under standard gait conditions, when the cup inclination angle increased from 45 degrees to 65 degrees, the wear of size 28mm bearing significantly (p=0.004) increased by 2.7-fold, however, the larger bearings did not show any increase in wear (p=0.9). The introduction of microseparation conditions resulted in a significant (p=0.0001) increase in wear rates for both bearing sizes under both cup inclination angle conditions. Under microseparation conditions, the increase in cup inclination angle had no influence on the wear rate for both bearing sizes (Figure 1).

With larger bearings, head-rim contact occurs at a steeper cup inclination angle providing an advantage over smaller bearings. The introduction of edge loading and microseparation conditions resulted in a significant increase in wear rates for both bearing sizes. The wear rates obtained in this study under combined increased cup inclination angle and microseparation were half of those obtained when SR MoM bearings were tested under similar adverse conditions^[2]. This study shows the importance of prosthesis design and accurate surgical positioning of the head and acetabular cup in MoM THRs.

In a cross sectional cohort study three different metal on metal total hip systems were assessed. Two monoblock acetabular designs; the Durom socket (Zimmer, Warsaw, In) and the Birmingham socket (Smith and Nephew, Memphis, TN), and one modular metal on metal total hip system (Pinnacle, Depuy Orthopaedics, Warsaw, In) in patients who have received these implants in the our region. 56 patients were recruited in total. All patients were assessed clinically, radiologically and biochemically. Whole blood Cobalt, Chromium and titanium levels were tested.

The median head size used in the Birmingham group was 52mm (Range 44mm to 56mm), and in the Durom group, 48mm (Range 42 to 54mm). The median head size used in the modular Pinnacle group was 40mm (Range 36–44mm).

The blood metal ions levels in the larger non modular acetabular sockets were significantly raised compared to the Pinnacle group. For Co 1.95 µg/l and 2.70 µg/l in the Durom and Birmingham groups respectively compared to only 0.52 µg/l in the Pinnacle group (P< 0.001). Mean Cr levels were the same for the two monoblock systems, 1.9 µg/l compared to the Pinnacle sockets 1.2 µg/l (P< 0.001).

Our study clearly demonstrates that there is a significant difference in metal ion levels in patients following a monobloc large head arthroplasty system compared to a smaller modular metal on metal hip arthroplasty. The smaller head size appears to produce less metal ions whilst at the same time a 36mm–44mm head size is large enough to increase hip stability and range of movement as well as decreasing the risk of impingement. In our practice we are no longer using this design and the safest strategy, when considering metal on metal bearings, is to use a modular, smaller head system such as the Pinnacle.

Background

Revision surgery for failed metal-on-metal (MOM) total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hip resurfacing (HR) has been a challenge. Previous studies have reported high failure and complication rates, including dislocation, infection, aseptic loosening and lower patient satisfaction. Options for revision depend on the integrity and stability of the femoral and acetabular components. When both components fail, full revision is required; however, when the acetabular component remains well fixed and oriented, only the isolated femoral component revision can be performed. Dual mobility components can be utilized to match the size to the inner diameter of the metal cup. With the dual mobility implant, the morbidity and complications associated with cup revision are avoided while maintaining a natural femoral head size and potentially increasing range of motion and stability postoperatively compared to standard THA.

An increase in metal ion levels is seen after implantation of all MoM hip prosthesis due to release from the surface directly, more so during articulation and corrosion of the bearing surfaces. The bearing surfaces in MoM prosthesis consist of cobalt, chromium and molybdenum. Several case-reports of cobalt toxicity due to a MoM prosthesis have been published in the last decade. Cobalt intoxication may lead to a variety of symptoms: neuro-ocular toxicity (tinnitus, vertigo, deafness, blindness, convulsions, headaches and peripheral neuropathy), cardiotoxicity and thyroid toxicity. Nausea, anorexia and unexplained weight loss have been described. Systemic effects from metal ions even with well functioning implants or with ion concentrations lower than those associated with known adverse effects may exist and warrant investigation. The aim of this study is to investigate self-reported systemic complaints in association with cobalt ion concentrations in patients with any type of MoM hip prosthesis. A cohort study was conducted. Patients with both unilateral and bilateral, resurfacing and large head metal on metal total hip arthroplasties were included for the current study. Blood metal ion concentrations (cobalt and chromium) were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Based on the known cobalt toxicity symptoms of case-reports and toxicology reports a new non-validated questionnaire was developed. questions were subdivided in general questions/symptoms, vestibular symptoms, neurological symptoms, emotional health and cardio- and thyroid toxicity symptoms. Independent samples T test, Fishers Exact Test and Pearsons (R) correlation were used. Analysis was performed on two groups; a low cobalt ion concentration group and a high cobalt ion concentration group A total of 62 patients, 36 (58%) men and 26 (42%) women, were included with a mean age at surgery of 60.8 ± 9.3 years (41.6 – 78.1) and a mean follow up of 6.3 ± 1.4years (3.7 – 9.6). In these patients a total of 71 prosthesis were implanted: 53 unilateral and 9 bilateral. Of these, 44 were resurfacing and 27 large head metal on metal (LHMoM) total hip arthroplasties. Mean cobalt and chromium ion concentrations were 104 ± 141 nmol/L (9 – 833) and 95 ± 130nmol/L (6 – 592), respectively. Based on the different thresholds (120 – 170 or 220 nmol/L) the low cobalt ion concentration group consisted of 44 (71%), 51 (82%) or 55 (89%) subjects respectively. No differences were found in general characteristics, independently of the threshold. The composite score of vestibular symptoms (vision, hearing, tinnitus, dizziness) was significantly higher (p < .050) in all high cobalt ion concentrations groups, independent of the threshold value This study aimed to detect a trend in self-reported systemic complaints in patients with metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty due to raised cobalt ion concentrations. Vestibular symptoms were more common in high cobalt ion concentration groups independent of the three threshold levels tested. The upper limit of acceptable cobalt ion concentrations remains uncertain. With regards to proactively inquired, self-reported symptoms the threshold where effects may be present could be lower than values currently applied in clinical follow-up. It is unknown what exposure to elevated metal ion concentrations for a longer period of time causes with aging subjects. Further research with a larger cohort and a more standardized questionnaire is necessary to detect previously undiscovered or under-reported effects

Purpose of the study:. Recent literature raised concern on the adverse effects, incidence of pseudo tumours and raised blood and urine Chromium and Cobalt levels in patients with a metal on metal articulation. The purpose of this study was to follow up a cohort of patients that received a metal on metal total hip replacement with minimum follow up of ten years and to compare the results with the literature. Methods:. All the available patients that underwent metal on metal total hip replacements during 1999 to 2000 with a minimum follow up of 10 years were clinically examined and evaluated with the Harris Hip Score; X-rays; Full Blood Count; CRP; LFT; U, K & E; blood and urine Chromium and Cobalt levels and Ultrasonic examination of the hip. The ultrasound was done by an independent experienced ultrasonographist in each case to exclude pseudo tumours or fluid collections. The patients were clinically examined to try and find any adverse effects of the metal on metal articulation. Results:. We found one patient that had a revision of the femoral component for a peri-prosthetic fracture retaining the metal on metal articulation that subsequently developed loosening and a pseudo tumour. The remaining patients had excellent Harris Hip Scores and their implants showed no osteolysis or radiological signs of loosening. Conclusion:. Despite the recent concern we obtained good results after ten year follow up with metal on metal prosthesis. However we do recommend careful selection of patients, detailed attention to surgical technique and close follow up when considering metal on metal articulation. Patients should be counselled about the possibility of tissue reaction to the bearing surface and possible future revision surgery

The biological reaction in metallosis and pseudotumor generation after metal on metal total hip arthroplasty or corroding metal implants remains unsettled. Clinically, still lethal cases appear with massive bone loss and metal ions are suspected to be responsible for this inflammatory reaction, solid metal wear particles instead are usually not observed in the common literature. The aim of this study was to compare the biological reactions of metal ions and metal wear particles in a murine in vivo model. Metal ions (CoCr), metal particles (CoCr), polyethylene particles (UHMWPE) and phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were injected into the left knee joint of female BALB/c mice. 7 days after injection, the microcirculation was observed using intravital fluorescence microscopy, followed by euthanasia of the animals. After the assessment of the knee diameter, the knees underwent histological evaluations of the synovial layer. Throughout all recorded data, CoCr particles caused higher inflammatory reactions compared to metal ions and UHMWPE particles. The mice treated with the solid particles showed enlarged knee diameters, more intensive leukocyte–endothelial cell interactions and an elevated functional capillary density. Pseudotumor-like tissue formations in the synovial layer of the mice were only seen after the exposition to solid CoCr particles. Even if the focus of several national guidelines concerning metallosis and pseudotumor generation is on metal ions, the present data reveal that solid CoCr particles have the strongest inflammatory activity compared with metal ions and UHMWPE particles in vivo

Adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) is well recognised as a complication of large head metal on metal total hip replacement (THR) leading to pain, bone and tissue loss and the need for revision surgery. An emerging problem of trunnionosis in metal on polyethylene total hip replacements leading to ARMD has been reported in a few cases. Increased metal ion levels have been reported in THR's with a titanium stem and a cobalt chrome head such as the Accolade-Trident THR (Stryker). We present 3 cases of ARMD with Accloade-Trident THR's with 36mm cobalt chrome head and a polyethylene liner. Metal ion levels were elevated in all three patients (cobalt 10.3 – 161nmol/l). Intraoperative tissue samples were negative for infection and inflammatory markers were normal. Abnormal fluid collections were seen in all three cases and bone loss was severe in one patient leading to a proximal femoral replacement. Histology demonstrated either a non-specific inflammatory reaction in a case which presented early or a granulomatous reaction in a more advanced case suggesting a local foreign body reaction. All patients had improved symptoms post-operatively. 1 patient who had staged bilateral Accolade-Trident THR's required revision of both THR's. ARMD in metal on polyethylene THR's with a titanium stem represents a potential emerging problem. Further studies are required to assess whether these occurrences are rare or represent the tip of an iceberg

Background. Large head metal on metal total hip arthroplasty MOM THA have been consistently shown substantial improvement in wear performance compared with metal on polyethylene articulations. Large diameter femoral heads theoretically can reduce dislocation risk by increasing range of motion before impingement, increasing prosthetic jump distance. However, early failure associated with adverse local tissue reactions (ALTRs) to metal debris is an emerging problem after MOM THA. The purpose of this study was to evaluate mid-term results of MOM THA. Materials and Methods. Twenty-five patients, 28 hips were included in this study. The average age of the patients at the time of surgery was 66.9 years. Three patients were men and 22 were women. MOM THAs were performed using 28 PINNACLE Cup system (DepPuy) (C-STEM: 23, S-ROM: 5) with posterior approach and head size of 36mm. Twenty-five primary THAs due to osteoarthritis in 22 cases and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in one, and two revisions due to recurrent dislocation THA patients, were performed. The average follow up was 56.7 months. Evaluation items are JOA score, cup anteversion /lateral opening angle, and complications. Indication of the system were applied for patients with high risk of dislocation such as recurrent dislocation in primary and/or THAs, posterior pelvic tilt, elderly, RA and mental disorders. Results. The average JOA score improved from 48.3 (range: 26–77) preoperatively to 88.3 (range: 55–100) postoperatively. The average cup anteversion was 21.7 degrees (range: 2–38) and average lateral opening was 45.5 degrees (range: 37–60). Three patients (12%) developed dislocation. Two patients (8%) required reoperations from the deep infection. One female patient (4%) remained hip pain and was suspected pseudotumor / ALTR, which was confirmed by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Conclusion. Large femoral head MOM THA was useful for patients with recurrent dislocation in revision THA. However, three patients developed dislocation in primary THAs (12% of primary cases), which suggested that the more accurate placement of the acetabular cup is important even in the large diameter cup. Although only one case (4%) revealed ALTR, however, continuous careful follow-up would be necessary in the MOM system

Metal on metal total hip arthroplasty (MoM THA) provides the potential improvement in articular wear. However, several adverse events including pseudotumor had been reported. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was considered to be the proposal tool for detection of pseudotumor after MoM THA. In this study, we performed the screening of pseudotumor after MoM THA using the MRI. We studied 43 patients with M2a Magnum® (Biomet) and 34 patients with M2a Taper® (Biomet) of MoM THA from December 2009 to December 2011 with follow-up of 2.5 years (2.0–4.0 years) after surgery. MRI assessments were performed at a mean of 2.1 years postoperatively. Pseudotumor findings were graded using Anderson classification (Skeletal Radiol, 2011: 40; 303). Age, sex, height, weight, Harris Hip Score, EQ5D satisfaction score, UCLA activity score, and blood metal ion levels were evaluated. The prevalence of pseudotumor was 27.2%; 56 normal (Type A), 13 mild (C1), 8 moderate (C2) and none were graded severe (C3). Weight and BMI in the mild group was significantly higher than those in normal. There was no significant difference in age, sex and height among these groups. With regard to Harris Hip score, pain and ROM score in moderate group was significantly lower than that in normal and mild group. EQ5D satisfaction score and UCLA activity score showed not significant differences among groups. 3.01±3.32 μg/L of blood cobalt ion levels in the moderate groups was significantly higher than 0.97±0.64 μg/L in normal group. Blood cobalt ion levels of 1 mild and 2 moderate were over the threshold of 7 μg/L. These patients were implanted with M2a Taper, not M2a Magnum. 14% of the prevalence in the patients with M2a Magnum was significantly lower than 41% in the patients with M2a Taper. No revision surgeries were required. The patients with no pseudotumor did not show the increase of blood metal ion. Contrarily, several patients showed the increase of blood metal ion in case of detecting pseudotumor. MRI assessments were useful for screening of pseudotumor after MoM THA and blood metal ion should be investigated for patients with mild and moderate pseudotumor in MoM THA