Ceramic Artificial Hips – The Sturdy Choice

Conventional hip replacement surgeries are done using “metal on polyethylene” as well as “metal on metal” implants. As an improvement on these hip implants, the technilogically advanced ceramic artificial hips have become the preferred artificial hip implants in several orthopedic centers across the world.

The normal hips consist of two components - a ball shaped head of the thigh bone which fits into the hollow of the hip socket in the pelvic bone. Traditional hip replacements and implants were made of metal heads and polyethylene sockets. This was replaced by the “metal on metal” replacement implants in which both components were made of metal. The newer ceramic artificial hip has a ceramic head which fits into a metallic socket or cup. Ceramics also cause less wear.

When there is movement at the hip joint, the resulting friction produces wear and tear. Friction damages the implant by forming disintegrated tiny particles. These particles then damage the surrounding bone by inciting an inflammatory reaction, causing loosening and failure of the artificial hip. Generally, about 10% of all artificial hip replacements require a surgical revision on account of implant failures. For this reason surgeons try to postpone hip replacements, hoping that the artificial implant will last the lifetime of the patient.

There are many advantages with the new ceramic replacement hips. Ceramics are less prone to wear and tear. As a result, the ceramic head of the hip stays intact longer, causing less damage to the surrounding normal bone. This prolongs the life of the implant. Younger patients who are in need of hip replacements may be more confidently taken up for surgery with the knowledge that ceramics have a better chance of lasting the patient’s lifetime.

Also see; causes of hip pain.

About The Author:

Dr. Bharat Sharma is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.hip-replacement-care.com. He has been working in the medical rehab field for more than a decade. Keeping up to date with techological advancements he has become a self appointe