Bioceramics in Total Hip Arthoplasty: Hydroxyapatite Coating

Our objective is to describe the use of hydroxyapatite coatings in total hip arthroplasty. Hydroxyapatite enhances bone ingrowth and provides for a durable and lasting construct. The femoral component has performed well at 15-year minimum follow-up, with aseptic revision rates routinely less than 1%. Initial results on the acetabular side were disappointing. However, after redesign, a second-generation arc-deposited hydroxyapatite-coated cup is performing well at 4- to 7-year follow-up. Hydroxyapatite-coated implants have also been used successfully in the revision setting. Future applications include the use of hydroxyapatite coating as a means of delivering bone-enhancing drugs such as the bisphosphonates.

Keywords: hydroxyapatite, total hip arthroplasty, bioceramics, implant design