The M2a-38tm metal on metal total hip arthroplasty showed a high incidence of pseudotumors and an unexpected high revision rate in our thoroughly screened cross sectional cohort. After the revival of the metal on metal (MoM) bearing in total hip arthroplasty (THA) at the beginning of this century, there are now serious questions about this type of bearing. The advantage of large head MoM bearing is the increase in range of motion and stability. In our institution the choice was made for 38 mm heads. During the last few years concerns have been raised about the relationship of MoM bearing and elevated serum cobalt and chromium ion levels, their local and systemic toxicological effects and the incidence of local tumorous masses (pseudotumors). Are these findings applicable for all MoM bearings or are there also product specific issues. We present the outcome of a cementless MoM THA using a 38mm head in a unique consecutive series of 377 THA who were performed in our institution.Summary
Introduction