Overview of metal-on-metal implants

Hip prostheses with metal-on-metal articulations have been used since the advent of hip arthroplasty. The long-term outcomes of these metal-on-metal initial implants were primarily compromised by a high rate of loosening. Based on improved metallurgical techniques and implant designs, a second wave of metal-on-metal implants were developed in the 2000s. Reports of adverse tissue reactions surrounding this generation of metal-on-metal implants have again raised the question of whether metal-on-metal implants are an appropriate bearing couple for joint arthroplasty. The answer to this bearing couple question will be found in an open discussion of the scientific, technical, and clinical research. The chapters contained within this practicum provide a review of the current information and should serve as a stimulus for these discussions.