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

A hip resurfacing arthroplasty has all the characteristics of an optimized metal on metal bearing: low surface roughness, head sphericity, low clearance, high carbon alloy metallurgy, and a larger diameter. Both wear simulation in the laboratory and clinical experience demonstrate that large diameter metal bearings with optimized clearance have the potential for low metal ion wear production. In addition, hip resurfacing can maintain normal hip mechanics. Hip resurfacing is the only metal bearing option that allows femoral bone conservation. There are situations where the femoral head bone is not sufficiently healthy or mechanically sound to warrant preservation. However, when the goal is bone conservation, and a metal bearing is indicated, there is no substitute in today's technology for a hip resurfacing.

Keywords: hip resurfacing, metal bearing