Radiostereometric Analysis Comparison of Wear of Highly Cross-Linked Polyethylene Against 36-mm Versus 28-mm Femoral Heads

Historically, the greater stability and increased range of motion afforded by the use of large-diameter femoral heads in total hip arthroplasty was countermanded by the increase in wear in conventional polyethylene. However, in vitro wear studies of highly cross-linked polyethylene suggested the possible return to the use of larger-diameter femoral heads. This study aimed to use radiostereometric analysis (RSA) to compare clinical femoral head penetration of 28- versus 36-mm heads into highly cross-linked polyethylene.