A metal ion study was undertaken in patients who had received an articular surface replacement. The design of these components is optimised in line with lubrication theory and produces low levels of wear in hip joint simulators. Patients were recruited in four centres. Whole blood samples were analysed for metal ion levels using high resolution ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrophotometry). A total of 75 patients was enrolled into the study and 65 and 47 patients were assessed after 12 and 24 months implantation respectively. Results are included irrespective of clinical outcome.Introduction
Methods