The effect of clearance upon friction of large diameter hip resurfacing prostheses using blood, clotted blood and bovine serum as lubricants

Abstract

Total hip joint implantation is an effective solution for reducing pain and ailing induced by arthritis or other diseases at the hip joint. Hence, a conventional metal on polyethylene (PE) bearing device has been introduced since late 1950's for implantation. However, due to significant release of PE wear debris causing swelling at joints and osteolysis leading to implant loosening and failure in fixation, attempts are made to optimize implant design, manufacturing and surgical procedures for a relatively new metal on metal hip resurfacing prostheses of larger diameters to have lower friction and wear, better fixation and reduced risk of dislocation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of diametral clearance on friction using a large diameter metal on metal hip resurfacing prosthesis and various lubricants including blood, clotted blood and combinations of bovine serum with aqueous solutions of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and hyaluronic acid (HA). © 2009 Springer-Verlag.