The UHMWPE Handbook. Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene in Total Joint Replacement

In the 1990s, polyethylene was widely regarded as the “villain” in total joint arthroplasty, largely due to its prominent role in aseptic loosening and periprosthetic osteolysis, the most common causes for implant failure. In this book, Dr. Steven Kurtz reminds us that ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is truly a remarkable material, the use of which in total joint arthroplasty has revolutionized the treatment of end-stage joint disease. In fact, polyethylene currently dominates the market for bearing surfaces in hip arthroplasty and is universally used in total knee arthroplasty. This is likely to be the case for the foreseeable future.