The Optimal Metal-Metal Arthroplasty Is Not a Surface Replacement—Affirms

Although surface replacement arthroplasty (SRA) of the hip remains intuitively appealing and aggressively marketed, the data suggest that short-term and intermediate results of surface replacement are not as good as conventional total hip replacement. Significantly worse results are observed in specific age and gender categories. In addition, there are clear limitations to biomechanical aspects of SRA, such as offset and limb length restoration. SRA continues to be an evolving aspect of hip replacement technique, and should remain an investigational procedure confined to specialized centers.