Active bio contact mechanics: Concepts of active control of wear and growth of the cartilage in natural joints

Abstract

The modern practice of treating patients with impaired motor functions often consists in replacing the natural joints with artificial ones. Currently, more than 1.5 million hip joint replacements are performed annually in the world, with a tendency to grow. Even if the replacement procedure is successful, replacement is often ineffective in the medium or long term, due to various complications. The paper puts forward ideas and discusses how to mechanically load the joint to promote the development of regenerative effects, while minimizing the influence of factors determining wear.