Minimal-Friction Hip Replacements - Maximize The Durability!

Friction is the resistance encountered upon rubbing one object against another. Friction forces are important in everyday living. For example, friction between road and footwear helps in walking without slipping. Friction on the other hand can also cause havoc. Friction forces in hip replacement implants are detrimental to the longevity of the implant; undue friction can eventually lead to implant failure. The resistance between the femoral head surface and the acetabular surface is the main culprit of wearing out of artificial hips. Minimal-friction hip replacements are sought with the aim of decreasing the harmful process.

With every movement of the hips, the femoral head rubs against the acetabular cup, wearing surface particles from both the surfaces. The process weakens the implant components as well as generates wear debris particles. The wear debris evokes an osteolytic response that absorbs the healthy bone around the hip implant. Thus, the implant loosens, resulting in painful restricted movements at the hips. The increasing burden of this problem has lead researchers to consider a minimal-friction hip replacement.

The new model of ceramic-on-metal implants are considered to undergo less friction torque. The fundamental principle behind it is that two unlike surfaces wear less. Experimentally, the ceramic model is better than a conventional model as it does not have polyethylene, which wears more. Hip replacement implants made of ceramic fare better than metal bearings. The minimal friction in ceramic models boosts up the life span of the implant. The resultant implant is more durable, stronger and is less liable to give in to friction forces. Ceramic artificial hips are likely to outlive the recipient’s life and are the best options for young and active patients.

Also see; hip replacement complications.

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 appointed expert.