Perspective and trends on bioceramics in joint replacement

Abstract

Ceramics have a wide field of application in joint replacements. This chapter is focused on the application of oxide ceramics in joint replacement bearings. The development of alumina, zirconia, and alumina-zirconia composites for this application is traced since the early 1970s. The criticalities in the design of ceramic components for joint replacements are described, as well as their main causes of failures in clinical use. The clinical results of the different bearing couples making use of ceramic components are reported, and the future tendencies in this field of application are summarized.