Long-Term Outcome on the Mal-Seating of Ceramic-on-Ceramic Articulation in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Total hip arthroplasty with ceramic-on-ceramic articulation aims to decrease wear, osteolysis, and aseptic loosening. A metal-backed ceramic liner was developed to reduce the risk of liner fracture. However, a significant number of cases of mal-seating of the metal-backed ceramic liner were observed in the 2000s, and there were concerns about their outcome. This review aims to investigate the long-term performance of the mal-seated ceramic liner.

From July 2003 to March 2007, 35 ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasties were performed with the Trident acetabular system. Clinical assessment, radiological analysis, and outcome assessment were performed. The prevalence of liner mal-seating and its long-term outcomes were investigated.

There was liner mal-seating in 8 hips (22.9%). One liner was exchanged in the early postoperative period. No revision surgery was required for the remaining 7 hips at a mean follow-up of 14 years. All patients were free of hip pain with a mean Harris Hip Score of 94.7 at the most recent follow-up. No adverse event was observed.

The long-term outcomes of the mal-seated liner were favorable. However, surgeons should exercise meticulous surgical technique to achieve a properly aligned liner within the acetabular shell to minimize this potentially correctable error.