Dual-Mobility Articulations in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Durable Game Changer or the Next Cause for Concern?

Abstract

The use of dual-mobility articulations in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasing. The appeal of dual-mobility implants rests in their ability to increase the effective ball head size for a given THA construct compared with conventional bearings, thereby reducing the risk of postoperative instability. Although the concept of dual-mobility articulation in THA is not new and early clinical experience dates back to the 1970s, its widespread use is a relatively recent phenomenon. Furthermore, unlike European surgeons who routinely use monoblock dual-mobility acetabular components in THA, the most common dual-mobility implants used in North America and worldwide are of a modular nature in which a metallic liner is coupled to a multibearing acetabular component and thus creating a metal-on-metal interface. It is important to review the evidence for the indications for dual-mobility implants in both primary and revision THA; present basic science data on the risk of corrosion in modular dual-mobility implants; and highlight the possible ongoing questions and concerns with dual-mobility implants. The goal is to provide a balanced critical review of this technology and define its current place in the hip surgeon's armamentarium.