Repeated Ceramic Head Fracture after Ceramic-on-ceramic Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract

Early generation ceramic articulations were problematic in terms of ceramic implant fracture and wear. Although the mechanical properties of ceramic material have improved during the last three decades, ceramic component fracture remains an issue. Many authors have reported fractures of the ceramic head, and a few have described ceramic acetabular insert fracture. However, these complications are only encountered rarely, and all cases reported to date involve a history of minor trauma. Here, we describe a case that required 2ndrevision with a CoCr metal head and conventional polyethylene liner due to a recurrent fracture of the ceramic head.