Fretting and Corrosion Damage of Retrieved Dual-Mobility Total Hip Arthroplasty Systems

Dual-Mobility Acetabular Components in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Do Not Increase the Risk of Complication Compared to Conventional Articulations: A Matched Cohort Comparative Analysis

Background

A recent National Joint Registry report suggests a higher local complication risk for dual-mobility (DM) total hip arthroplasty (THA) compared to conventional articulation THA. This report may be subject to data heterogeneity with multiple confounders. Controlling for these factors by matching demographic characteristics may give different results. We aim to compare 2-year local complication rates between matched DM and conventional THAs in primary hip osteoarthritis.

Methods

Data were collected for consecutive primary THAs undertaken via a posterior approach. The conventional articulation and DM cohorts were matched 3:1 for age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiology grade, body mass index, and operative time using a propensity score and nearest neighbor matching method. Outcome measures were 2-year local complication rates, reoperation rates, systemic complication rates, and mortality rates. Demographic and outcome data were compared, and cumulative survival rates (%) were assessed using Kaplan-Meier methodology with a 2-year local complication as the endpoint. Statistical significance was set at P < .05.

Results

Four hundred twelve THAs were included: 309 conventional and 103 DM articulations. There were no statistically significant differences between DM and conventional articulation THAs for local complications (7 [6.8%] vs 23 [7.4%], P = .820), reoperations (3 [2.9%] vs 4 [1.3%], P = .374), systemic complications (3 [2.9%] vs 4 [1.3%], P = .374), or 90-day mortality (1 [1%] vs 2 [0.6%], P = 1.000). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated similar 2-year survival rates for conventional THAs compared to DM THAs (93.3% [standard error, 0.014] vs 91.9% [standard error, 0.031], P = .906).

Conclusions

This matched study shows that there is no difference in local complication rates between DM and conventional THA articulations.

Global mapping of institutional and hospital-based (Level II-IV) arthroplasty registries: a scoping review

PURPOSE

Four joint arthroplasty registries (JARs) levels exist based on the recorded data type. Level I JARs are national registries that record primary data. Hospital or institutional JARs (Level II-IV) document further data (patient-reported outcomes, demographic, radiographic). A worldwide list of Level II-IV JARs must be created to effectively assess and categorize these data.

METHODS

Our study is a systematic scoping review that followed the PRISMA guidelines and included 648 studies. Based on their publications, the study aimed to map the existing Level II-IV JARs worldwide. The secondary aim was to record their lifetime, publications' number and frequency and recognise differences with national JARs.

RESULTS

One hundred five Level II-IV JARs were identified. Forty-eight hospital-based, 45 institutional, and 12 regional JARs. Fifty JARs were found in America, 39 in Europe, nine in Asia, six in Oceania and one in Africa. They have published 485 cohorts, 91 case-series, 49 case-control, nine cross-sectional studies, eight registry protocols and six randomized trials. Most cohort studies were retrospective. Twenty-three per cent of papers studied patient-reported outcomes, 21.45% surgical complications, 13.73% postoperative clinical and 5.25% radiographic outcomes, and 11.88% were survival analyses. Forty-four JARs have published only one paper. Level I JARs primarily publish implant revision risk annual reports, while Level IV JARs collect comprehensive data to conduct retrospective cohort studies.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study mapping all Level II-IV JARs worldwide. Most JARs are found in Europe and America, reporting on retrospective cohorts, but only a few report on studies systematically.

Evaluation of Mechanically-Assisted Crevice Corrosion of Different Modular Dual Mobility Constructs

BACKGROUND

Modular dual mobility (MDM) acetabular component use is rising in total hip arthroplasty. However, concern of mechanically-assisted crevice corrosion (MACC) at the shell-liner interface remains. We investigated shell-liner corrosion using retrieval analyses and corrosion chamber testing.

METHODS

We analyzed fretting and corrosion on 10 matched pairs of two commercial modular dual mobility constructs (MDM1 and MDM2). Also, pristine pairs of Ti6Al4V shells and CoCrMo liners from three commercial dual mobility systems (MDM1, MDM2, MDM3) were tested in vitro to model MACC performance. Three pairs of each were placed into an electrochemical chamber with stepwise increasing cyclic compression loads, while measuring currents generated at the shell-liner taper. Onset fretting loads and fretting currents were calculated.

RESULTS

Corrosion damage scores on retrieved components were low, but higher in the MDM2 to MDM1 liners (P = 0.006), specifically outside the taper region (P = 0.00003). Fretting currents were higher in the MDM2 than in MDM1 or MDM3 (P = 0.011). Onset loads were also higher in the MDM2 (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Among retrieved liners, MDM2 tapers seem prone to non-mechanical corrosion modes. Higher onset loads and fretting currents in MDM2 tapers indicate greater MACC resistance, but higher severity once corrosion begins. Differences among the devices were likely due to taper design and surface finish. Currents in all three were <5 μA, much lower than those observed with head-neck tapers. Our findings suggest that among the types of corrosion observed in these MDM designs, mechanically driven corrosion may not be the most significant.

The Role of Dual-Mobility Components in Total Hip Arthroplasty

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Dual mobility (DM) refers to a now widely available option for total hip articulation. DM implants feature a small inner head, a hard bearing, that connects via a taper fit onto the femoral trunnion. This head freely rotates but is encased inside a larger, outer polyethylene head that articulates with a smooth acetabular component.

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DM acetabular components are available in the form of a monoblock shell or as a liner that is impacted into a modular shell, providing a metal articulation for the polyethylene outer head.

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DM is designed to increase hip stability by providing the arthroplasty construct with a higher jump distance, head-to-neck ratio, and range of motion prior to impingement.

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The use of DM in total hip arthroplasty continues to increase in the United States for both primary and revision arthroplasty. Surgeons should be aware of the potential benefits and pitfalls.

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Long-term data are lacking, especially for modular DM implants. Points of concern include a potential for accelerated polyethylene wear, intraprosthetic dislocation, and modular backside fretting corrosion.

Minimum Five-Year Outcomes of Modular Dual Mobility in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Using a modular dual-mobility (MDM) bearing in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) has not been widely evaluated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical outcomes and survivorship following MDM bearings in primary THA.

METHODS

We used our registry database for patients with an MDM bearing on primary THA, performed by 6 surgeons through supine direct lateral or direct anterior approach. MDM bearings were used most often when impingement or subluxation was present intraoperatively despite proper component position. Another indication was a patient with planned activities who might be at a higher risk of instability postoperatively.

RESULTS

A total of 127 MDM bearings were used in primary THA in 119 patients. Mean follow-up was 6.77 years (range 5-8.9). Five hips were revised, none of which were due to MDM bearing failure. Preoperative Hip dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement, Veterans RAND/Short Form 12 Physical Health Score and Mental Health Score increased from 25.81 to 52.40 (P < .0001), 30.42 to 44.50 (P < .0001), and 36.21 to 52.70 (P < .0001) at latest completed survey follow-up, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This MDM bearing shows excellent functional outcomes at a minimum 5 years of follow-up with no bearing-related failures. It can be an excellent choice in primary THA specifically in females where the use of increased head size to prevent instability is not possible due to anatomical restrictions and liner thickness.

Liner malseating is rare with two modular dual-mobility designs

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of liner malseating in two commonly used dual-mobility (DM) designs. Secondary aims included determining the risk of dislocation, survival, and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 256 primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs) that included a DM component (144 Stryker MDM and 112 Zimmer-Biomet G7) in 233 patients, performed between January 2012 and December 2019. Postoperative radiographs were reviewed independently for malseating of the liner by five reviewers. The mean age of the patients at the time of THA was 66 years (18 to 93), 166 (65%) were female, and the mean BMI was 30 kg/m² (17 to 57). The mean follow-up was 3.5 years (2.0 to 9.2).

RESULTS

Three liners (1.2%) were malseated, including two MDMs (1.4%) and one G7 (0.9%). No clinical consequence was identified from malseating. The five-year survival free of dislocation was 97.1%, including two DM and one intraprosthetic dislocation. The five-year survival free of revision was 95.4%, with seven revisions. The mean Harris Hip Scores increased from 46 (24 to 69) preoperatively to 81 (40 to 100) at two years postoperatively (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of DM liner malseating after primary THA was low, with no known clinical consequences at mid-term follow-up. Malseating is not exclusive of design, and these findings emphasize the importance of careful evaluation of the liner after impaction to avoid this complication. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(5):598-603.

Do Modular Dual Mobility Cups Offer a Reliable Benefit? Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up of 102 Cups

BACKGROUND

Among various options suggested to prevent hip instability after total hip replacement, the MDM-tritanium (modular dual mobility) cup features a cobalt-chrome liner (CoCr) positioned in a titanium acetabular shell and matched with a mobile insert in highly cross-linked annealed X3 polyethylene. The purpose of this study aimed to confirm whether there was no significant release of ions (Co and Cr) or higher occurrence of dislocation or even cases of aseptic loosening of the cementless shell with the use of MDM-tritanium cups at minimum of 5-year follow-up.

METHODS

The clinical study was carried out on a homogeneous consecutive and nonselective series with 102 MDM cups (98 patients) implanted in 2 centers. This MDM-tritanium cup had been systematically used for surgical revisions (70% of cases) or for patients with major hip dysplasia or in elderly patients with poor bone quality. A biological assessment of ion releases has been performed in a specific cohort of 39 cases that had an internal ceramic head.

RESULTS

None of the following complications was observed: no case of immunoallergic event, no aseptic loosening, and the dislocation rate was 4.9% involving only the difficult primary and revision cases. The clinical results were encouraging, with 89.7 points for Harris Hip Score, 41.16 points/48 for the OHS-12. The Agora Roentgenographic Assessment (ARA) radiologic score was graded "excellent" in 94.4%. The MDM-tritanium survivorship with revision for any cause in 102 cups at 7.95 years was 92.7%.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of our first 102 cases, there were no immunoallergic complications-contrary to what was initially feared with the CoCr bearing-titanium pair-and no postoperative instability, including for complex primary and revisions total hip replacements.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Individual Cohort Study: 2B.

Hip stability parameters with dual mobility, modular dual mobility and fixed bearing in total hip arthroplasty: an analytical evaluation

Background

Use of dual mobility (DM) in total hip arthroplasty has gained popularity due to the ability to reduce dislocation through increased jumping distance and impingement-free arc of movement. Recently, modular dual mobility (modDM) systems were introduced to give the possibility to use DM with standard metal-backed shells, however few has been studied to date regarding how jumping distance and the center of rotation change with modDM. The objective of this study was to evaluate, through analytical simulation, how jumping distance, center of rotation and arc of movement change between DM and standard cups with modDM or fixed bearings (FB).

Methods

3D-models of DM and standard press-fit cups with modDM or FB liners were used to simulate DM, modDM and FB implant configurations, matched for same cup size, according to same cup position and different femoral head diameters. Jumping distance was calculated and center of rotation lateralization and oscillation angles were measured for each size of these three implant configurations.

Results

Jumping distance with modDM was reduced by -3.9 mm to -8.6 mm in comparison with DM, from 48 to 64 mm size, but resulted comparable to polyethylene 36 mm FB and increased by + 1.1 mm and + 1.4 mm than ceramic 36 and 40 mm FBs for sizes > 54 mm. ModDM lateralized the center of rotation up to + 2.5 mm and + 4.0 mm in comparison with DM and FBs, respectively. Oscillation angle with modDM resulted higher than + 16°, + 23°, + 17° and + 14° in comparison to DM, 28 mm, 32 mm and 36 mm FB cups, respectively, for 56 mm cup size.

Conclusions

According to its specific design, modDM might change hip stability parameters in comparison to DM, worsening jumping distance and center of rotation position, but increasing arc of movement. As not restoring stability parameters in the same fashion, modDM implants should be properly used when DM cups are not feasible.

Trends of Femoral Neck Fracture Treatment Using Total Hip Arthroplasty: Reported From the American Joint Replacement Registry

INTRODUCTION

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) rather than hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fracture (FNF) is often chosen for younger patients who are more active and/or have underlying hip osteoarthritis. However, instability remains the primary concern of doing THA. Dual mobility (DM) has been shown to decrease this risk through a larger effective head size and greater head-to-neck ratio compared with conventional THA. The purpose of this study was to identify femoral head size and DM usage patterns for the treatment of FNF with THA in the United States using the American Joint Replacement Registry.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted, including all primary THAs done for FNF from 2012 to 2019. THA and FNF were defined using Current Procedural Terminology or International Classification of Diseases-9 or -10 diagnosis and procedure codes. Analysis was based on patient demographics, femoral head size, and DM usage. Descriptive statistics were used using a Pearson chi-square test. All analyses were conducted using SAS version 9.4, and statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

There were 18,752 THAs done by 3,242 surgeons at 789 institutions during the 8-year study period. The overall population was 66% female, and the mean age was 72.3 ± 11.8 years. The most commonly used femoral head size was 36 mm (48.5%) followed by 32 mm (24.5%), ≤28 mm (10.7%), DM (10.8%), and ≥40 mm (5.7%). A trend was observed toward decreased use of ≤28, 32, and ≥40-mm heads starting in 2016 across the years and increased use of 36-mm heads (P < 0.0001). A significant increase was observed in the usage of DM over time from 6.4% in 2012 to 16.2% in 2019 (P < 0.0001).

DISCUSSION

Most of the femoral heads used were ≥36 mm, and the use of DM increased during the study period. Additional analysis is warranted to understand how these trends will affect overall outcomes and postoperative dislocation rates.

Cementation of a dual mobility cup in a well-fixed acetabular component- a reliable option in revision total hip arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

The "cup-in-cup" technique allows for revision of failed total hip arthroplasty (THA) when the cementless cup is well fixed. Furthermore, it can be used for liner wear or mechanical failure where liner replacement may be impossible or impractical. Recently, the "cup-in-cup" technique in combination with dual mobility cups (DMC) has drawn increased attention. Our aim was to report on the clinical and radiographic outcomes following this surgery.

METHODS

From 2015 to 2020, 33 patients treated with the DMC- "cup in cup" technique were retrospectively reviewed. Fourteen patients had died while 19 were available for the final follow-up (FU), of which 15 underwent both a radiograph and a FU visit, 2 underwent a radiograph only and 2 underwent a telephone interview only. Patient-related outcome measures included the HHS and the WOMAC. Radiographs were assessed for implant loosening and positioning. Primary endpoint was revision of any cause and secondary endpoint was loosening of the DMC at the latest FU. The survival analysis was conducted using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

The mean age at surgery was 78.6 ± 7.1 (63-93) years and the mean surgery duration was 124.4 ± 52.0 (60-245) minutes. Recurrent dislocation (42.4%), periprosthetic fracture (39.4%) and polyethylene wear (6.1%) were the most frequent reasons for surgery. The mean FU duration (n = 19) was 28.5 ± 17.3 (3-64) months. The mean HHS score at FU was 59.4 ± 22.2 (29-91) and the mean WOMAC score was 59.7 ± 25.6 (15.6-93.8). Two cups were revised due to instability and one revision was performed due to periprosthetic joint infection, accounting for an overall cup survival rate of 86.8% after a mean FU of 22.9 ± 18.0 (1.5-64.6) months. The survival rate free of loosening was 90.9% after a mean FU of 22.3 ± 18.5 (1.5-64.7) months.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that the cementation of a DMC in a well-fixed cup is a promising short- to mid-term treatment addressing THA instability especially in elderly and frail patients, who benefit from a reduced operation time. Proper cementation technique, adequate cup positioning as well as selection of a sufficiently large DMC are crucial for treatment success. Longer FUs will be needed in the future in order to further prove the benefit of this technique.

Malseating of modular dual mobility liners

Aims

Prior studies have identified that malseating of a modular dual mobility liner can occur, with previous reported incidences between 5.8% and 16.4%. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of malseating in dual mobility implants at our institution, assess for risk factors for liner malseating, and investigate whether liner malseating has any impact on clinical outcomes after surgery.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the radiographs of 239 primary and revision total hip arthroplasties with a modular dual mobility liner. Two independent reviewers assessed radiographs for each patient twice for evidence of malseating, with a third observer acting as a tiebreaker. Univariate analysis was conducted to determine risk factors for malseating with Youden’s index used to identify cut-off points. Cohen’s kappa test was used to measure interobserver and intraobserver reliability.

Results

In all, 12 liners (5.0%), including eight Stryker (6.8%) and four Zimmer Biomet (3.3%), had radiological evidence of malseating. Interobserver reliability was found to be 0.453 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.26 to 0.64), suggesting weak inter-rater agreement, with strong agreement being greater than 0.8. We found component size of 50 mm or less to be associated with liner malseating on univariate analysis (p = 0.031). Patients with malseated liners appeared to have no associated clinical consequences, and none required revision surgery at a mean of 14 months (1.4 to 99.2) postoperatively.

Conclusion

The incidence of liner malseating was 5.0%, which is similar to other reports. Component size of 50 mm or smaller was identified as a risk factor for malseating. Surgeons should be aware that malseating can occur and implant design changes or changes in instrumentation should be considered to lower the risk of malseating. Although further follow-up is needed, it remains to be seen if malseating is associated with any clinical consequences.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(10):858–864.

Femoral Neck Notching in Dual Mobility Implants: Is This a Reason for Concern?

BACKGROUND

Dual mobility (DM) total hip arthroplasty (THA) implants have been advocated for patients at risk for impingement due to abnormal spinopelvic mobility. Impingement against cobalt-chromium acetabular bearings, however, can result in notching of titanium femoral stems. This study investigated the incidence of femoral stem notching associated with DM implants and sought to identify risk factors.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study reviewed 256 modular and 32 monoblock DM components with minimum 1-year clinical and radiographic follow-up, including 112 revisions, 4 conversion THAs, and 172 primary THAs. Radiographs were inspected for evidence of femoral notching and to calculate acetabular inclination and anteversion. Revisions and dislocations were recorded.

RESULTS

Ten cases of femoral notching were discovered (3.5%), all associated with modular cylindrospheric cobalt-chromium DM implants (P = .049). Notches were first observed radiographically at mean 1.3 years after surgery (range 0.5-2.7 years). Notch location was anterior (20%), superior (60%), or posterior (20%) on the prosthetic femoral neck. Notch depth ranged from 1.7% to 20% of the prosthetic neck diameter. Eight cases with notching had lumbar pathology that can affect spinopelvic mobility. None of these notches resulted in stem fracture, at mean 2.7-year follow-up (range 1-7.6 years). There were no dislocations or revisions in patients with notching.

CONCLUSION

Femoral notching was identified in 3.5% of DM cases, slightly surpassing the dislocation rate in a cohort selected for risk of impingement and instability. Although these cases of notching have not resulted in catastrophic failures thus far, further study of clinical sequelae is warranted. Component position, spinopelvic mobility, and implant design may influence risk.

Dislocation rates following total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach in a consecutive, non-selective cohort

AIMS

Use of the direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has increased in recent years due to proposed benefits, including a lower risk of dislocation and improved early functional recovery. This study investigates the dislocation rate in a non-selective, consecutive cohort undergoing THA via the DAA without any exclusion or bias in patient selection based on habitus, deformity, age, sex, or fixation method.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing THA via the DAA between 2011 and 2017 at our institution. Primary outcome was dislocation at minimum two-year follow-up. Patients were stratified by demographic details and risk factors for dislocation, and an in-depth analysis of dislocations was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 2,831 hips in 2,205 patients were included. Mean age was 64.9 years (24 to 96), mean BMI was 29.2 kg/m² (15.1 to 53.8), and 1,595 patients (56.3%) were female. There were 11 dislocations within one year (0.38%) and 13 total dislocations at terminal follow-up (0.46%). Five dislocations required revision. The dislocation rate for surgeons who had completed their learning curve was 0.15% compared to 1.14% in those who had not. The cumulative periprosthetic infection and fracture rates were 0.53% and 0.67%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In a non-selective, consecutive cohort of patients undergoing THA via the DAA, the risk of dislocation is low, even among patients with risk factors for instability. Our data further suggest that the DAA can be safely used in all hip arthroplasty patients without an increased risk of wound complications, fracture, infection, or revision. The inclusion of seven surgeons increases the generalizability of these results. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):38-45.

Dual Mobility Reduces Dislocations-Why I Use It in All Revisions

BACKGROUND

Instability remains the most common complication after revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) and presents a unique treatment dilemma for the orthopedic surgeon. Dual mobility (DM) bearing articulations have been used in France since the 1970s, but have only become more widely adopted in the United States over the last decade. The purpose of this symposium was to discuss the role for DM bearings in revision THA.

METHODS

We reviewed the existing literature on outcomes after DM bearing articulations in revision THA. We also report several case examples of the use of DM in difficult revision THA cases, including acetabular bone loss, failed constrained liner, and adverse local tissue reaction. Finally, we briefly discuss the limitations associated with the use of DM.

RESULTS

Several large retrospective series demonstrate that DM bearings reduce the incidence of dislocation after revision THA when compared with conventional single bearing THA. Specific complications related to DM bearings including polyethylene wear, loosening, intraprosthetic dislocation, and corrosion remain a concern, but appear to have drastically improved over time with modern implant designs.

CONCLUSION

Contemporary DM designs have been established as an effective bearing option to reduce instability in revision THA, although concerns do exist. High-quality prospective studies are necessary to further define the role this bearing option has in the coming years.

Fretting Corrosion, Third-Body Polyethylene Damage, and Cup Positioning in Primary vs Revision Dual Mobility Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Dual mobility (DM) articulations were introduced for total hip arthroplasty to reduce the risk of instability for patients who have a high risk of dislocation. The use of DM constructs in both primary and revision total hip arthroplasty has been steadily increasing, leading to concerns regarding potential risks of fretting corrosion, polyethylene wear, metal release, and failure due to component positioning.

METHODS

A total of 56 retrieved DM constructs were collected. The inner and outer polyethylene liner surfaces were assessed for 7 damage mechanisms, and fretting corrosion was evaluated for the femoral stem, head, and modular liner. Three polyethylene liners with the greatest amounts of embedded debris were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was used to determine the elemental content of the debris. Acetabular cup orientation was analyzed radiographically using the EBRA (Einzel-Bild-Roentgen-Analyse) method.

RESULTS

The devices were revised most frequently for infection (36%), loosening (21%), and instability/dislocation (18%). The most common polyethylene damage mechanisms were scratching, pitting, burnishing, and embedded debris, and no difference in total damage was found between primary and revision cases. Scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed that debris morphology and composition were consistent with porous titanium coating, resulting from cup loosening or broken screws and augments. A total of 71% and 50% of the constructs were determined to be within the Lewinnek safe zone for inclination and anteversion, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The most notable mechanisms of surface damage were due to third-body debris, especially for the polyethylene surfaces which articulate against cobalt-chromium femoral heads and acetabular liners. Scratching of the femoral head and the metal liner from this debris may support the clinical use of ceramic for DM bearing surfaces in the future.

Adverse reaction to metal debris due to fretting corrosion between the acetabular components of modular dual-mobility constructs in total hip replacement: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Modular dual-mobility (MDM) constructs can be used to reduce dislocation rates after total hip replacement (THR). However, there are concerns about adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) as a result of fretting corrosion between the metal liner and shell. This systematic review reports outcomes following THR using MDM components. It was registered with PROSPERO and conducted in line with Cochrane and PRISMA recommendations.Sixteen articles were included overall, with meta-analysis performed on relevant subsets using a random intercept logistic regression model. Estimated median incidence of ARMD requiring revision surgery within study follow-up period was 0.3% (95% CI 0.1 - 1.8%, from 11 cohort studies containing 1312 cases).Serum metal ion levels were mildly raised in 7.9% of cases, and significantly raised in 1.8%, but there was no correlation with worse clinical hip function scores within studies. Dislocation rate was 0.8%. Revision rate was 3.3%.There are mixed reports of wear on the backside of the metal liner from the acetabular shell and screw heads. Both implant design and component malseating are implicated, but currently it is unclear to what extent each factor is responsible.Studies were poor quality with high risk of confounding, especially from trunnion corrosion. We have made recommendations for further work. In the meantime, surgeons should be aware of the potential risk of ARMD when considering using an MDM prosthesis, and, if selecting one, must ensure proper seating of the liner and screws intraoperatively. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:343-353. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.200146.

Risk Stratification Algorithm for Management of Head-Neck Taper Tribocorrosion in Patients with Metal-on-Polyethylene Total Hip Arthroplasty: Consensus Statement of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and The Hip Society

Adverse local tissue reactions (ALTRs) were initially reported as complications associated with metal-on-metal (MoM) bearings; however, there is increasing concern regarding the occurrence of adverse local tissue reactions from mechanically assisted crevice corrosion (MACC) at the femoral head-neck junction or between other modular junctions of the implant containing cobalt chromium parts in patients with metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) bearings. ALTR due to MACC at the head-neck junction has primarily been reported in association with cobalt chromium alloy femoral heads. As pain following total hip arthroplasty may have various intrinsic and extrinsic causes, a systematic approach to evaluation (risk stratification algorithm) based on the currently available data is recommended to optimize patient management. Evaluation should begin by ruling out common causes of pain, including component loosening and periprosthetic joint infection. While specialized tests such as blood metal analysis and metal artifact reduction sequence magnetic resonance imaging (MARS MRI) are useful modalities in evaluating for ALTRs, over-reliance on any single investigative tool in the clinical decision-making process should be avoided. There should be a low threshold to perform a systematic evaluation for ALTR due to MACC in patients with metal-on-polyethylene total hip arthroplasty as early recognition and diagnosis is critical, as delays in appropriate treatment initiation may result in soft-tissue damage, which complicates surgical treatment and is associated with a higher risk of complications and poorer patient outcomes.

Metal ion levels with use of modular dual mobility constructs: Can the evidence guide us on clinical use?

Introduction

Dual mobility (DM) use in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has increased, particularly for prevention and management of instability. However, a modular interface raises concern for metal ion generation. The purpose of this study was to determine the 1) serum cobalt and chromium levels; 2) prevalence of ion levels >1 mcg/L; and 3) effect of femoral head material on ion levels following THA using modular DM bearings.

Methods

We performed a systematic review (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane databases) for articles relating to metal ion levels and modular DM (MDM) THA. Eight studies (290 patients) met the inclusion criteria. We recorded post-operative ion levels at a minimum of 12 months, and compared levels with ceramic (n = 125) and metal femoral heads (n = 165). A meta-analysis could not be performed due to poor study quality and heterogeneity.

Results

At average follow-up of 30.4 months, mean cobalt level was 0.71 mcg/L, and mean chromium level was 0.66 mcg/L [22 patients (8%) had elevated ion levels above 1 mcg/L]. When compared to MDM with a ceramic head, metal head use had higher cobalt (1.26 vs. 0.42 mcg/L) and chromium levels (1.23 vs. 0.46 mcg/L). MDM with a metal head was 1.30 times more likely to have elevated ion levels >1 mcg/L. There was no effect of ion levels on outcome scores.

Conclusions

Measurable elevations of serum cobalt and chromium levels are present in patients with well-functioning MDM THAs. The impact and contributions of the additional metal liner interface are still unclear. The use of a ceramic head appears to mitigate ion release, while reducing other mechanisms of metallosis like taper corrosion. Higher quality studies are necessary to understand whether MDM bearings pose long term issues. Until then, the judicious use of MDM articulations is recommended.

Impingement Resulting in Femoral Notching and Elevated Metal-Ion Levels After Dual-Mobility Total Hip Arthroplasty

A 60-year-old woman underwent revision total hip arthroplasty with a modular dual-mobility articulation for recurrent dislocation. At 1-year follow-up, the patient reported no dislocations but had occasional clicking and discomfort with extreme motion. A Dunn radiograph identified notching of the femoral stem, attributed to impingement. Metal ions were elevated without adverse local-tissue reaction. After 4.5 years of observation, the notch size remained stable. She denied pain. Neither stem fracture nor prosthetic dislocation occurred. Impingement against cobalt-chromium acetabular bearing surfaces can result in notching of titanium femoral components after total hip arthroplasty. Increased anteversion intended to protect against posterior dislocation may be a risk factor. Posterior notching is best visualized on Dunn views, so incidence may be underestimated. No associated femoral implant fractures were identified on literature review.

2020 Otto Aufranc Award: Malseating of modular dual mobility liners

AIMS

This combined clinical and in vitro study aimed to determine the incidence of liner malseating in modular dual mobility (MDM) constructs in primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs) from a large volume arthroplasty centre, and determine whether malseating increases the potential for fretting and corrosion at the modular metal interface in malseated MDM constructs using a simulated corrosion chamber.

METHODS

For the clinical arm of the study, observers independently reviewed postoperative radiographs of 551 primary THAs using MDM constructs from a single manufacturer over a three-year period, to identify the incidence of MDM liner-shell malseating. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), cup design, cup size, and the MDM case volume of the surgeon. For the in vitro arm, six pristine MDM implants with cobalt-chrome liners were tested in a simulated corrosion chamber. Three were well-seated and three were malseated with 6° of canting. The liner-shell couples underwent cyclic loading of increasing magnitudes. Fretting current was measured throughout testing and the onset of fretting load was determined by analyzing the increase in average current.

RESULTS

The radiological review identified that 32 of 551 MDM liners (5.8%) were malseated. Malseating was noted in all of the three different cup designs. The incidence of malseating was significantly higher in low-volume MDM surgeons than high-volume MDM surgeons (p < 0.001). Pristine well-seated liners showed significantly lower fretting current values at all peak loads greater than 800 N (p < 0.044). Malseated liner-shell couples had lower fretting onset loads at 2,400 N.

CONCLUSION

MDM malseating remains an issue that can occur in at least one in 20 patients at a high-volume arthroplasty centre. The onset of fretting and increased fretting current throughout loading cycles suggests susceptibility to corrosion when this occurs. These results support the hypothesis that malseated liners may be at risk for fretting corrosion. Clinicians should be aware of this phenomenon. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7 Supple B):20-26.

Trends in the use of dual mobility bearings in hip arthroplasty

Aims

Dual mobility (DM) bearings are an attractive treatment option to obtain hip stability during challenging primary and revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) cases. The purpose of this study was to analyze data submitted to the American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR) to characterize utilization trends of DM bearings in the USA.

Methods

All primary and revision THA procedures reported to AJRR from 2012 to 2018 were analyzed. Patients of all ages were included and subdivided into DM and traditional bearing surface cohorts. Patient demographics, geographical region, hospital size, and teaching affiliation were assessed. Associations were determined by chi-squared analysis and logistic regression was performed to assess outcome variables.

Results

A total of 406,900 primary and 34,745 revision THAs were identified, of which 35,455 (8.7%) and 8,031 (23.1%) received DM implants respectively. For primary THA, DM usage increased from 6.7% in 2012 to 12.0% in 2018. Among revision THA, DM use increased from 19.5% in 2012 to 30.6% in 2018. Patients < 50 years of age had the highest rates of DM implantation in every year examined. For each year of increase in age, there was a 0.4% decrease in the rate of DM utilization (odds ratio (OR) 0.996 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.995 to 0.997); p < 0.001). Females were more likely to receive a DM implant compared to males (OR 1.077 (95% CI 1.054 to 1.100); p < 0.001). Major teaching institutions and smaller hospitals were associated with higher rates of utilization. DM articulations were used more commonly for dysplasia compared with osteoarthritis (OR 2.448 (95% CI 2.032 to 2.949); p < 0.001) during primary THA and for instability (OR 3.130 (95% CI 2.751 to 3.562) vs poly-wear; p < 0.001) in the revision setting.

Conclusion

DM articulations showed a marked increase in utilization during the period examined. Younger patient age, female sex, and hospital characteristics such as teaching status, smaller size, and geographical location were associated with increased utilization. DM articulations were used more frequently for primary THA in patients with dysplasia and for revision THA in patients being treated for instability. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7 Supple B):27–32.

Outcome of Re-Revision Surgery for Adverse Local Tissue Reaction in Metal-on-Polyethylene and Metal-on-Metal Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Adverse local tissue reactions (ALTRs), initially described as a complication of metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasty (THA), have also become an important risk factor for implant failure requiring revision surgery in metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) THA due to modular taper corrosion. This study aims to report early complication rates and outcomes as well as potential risk factors for a re-revision.

METHODS

A total of 252 consecutive THA patients who underwent revision for ALTR were reviewed. There were 40 patients (16%) who underwent a second revision: (1) 26 MoP patients with modular taper corrosion and (2) 14 MoM patients. Patient demographics as well as clinical information were analyzed. Binary logistic regression was used to test for associations between re-revision surgery and clinical parameters.

RESULTS

The overall complication rate following initial revision for ALTR was 21%. Sixteen percent of these revision patients required a re-revision. The most common indication for re-revision was dislocation (45%). The complication rate was 35% following a re-revision which included dislocation (36%), infection (36%), fracture (14%), and implant loosening (14%). The rate of patients requiring a third revision was 23% with the most common indications being dislocation (33%) and infection (33%) (P = .032).

CONCLUSION

High rate of early complications (35%) and third revisions (23%) were observed following re-revision of symptomatic ALTR patients with those requiring re-revision associated with extensive intraoperative tissue necrosis. These findings provide clinically useful information that may assist surgeons in clinical decision making and preoperative counseling of both MoM and MoP patients undergoing re-revision surgery for ALTR.