Three-dimensional polyethylene wear of a press-fit titanium prosthesis - Factors influencing generation of polyethylene debris

Between 1985 and 1990, 108 consecutive Harris-Galante I (Zimmer, Warsaw IN) total hip arthroplasties were performed by four surgeons at a single hospital. At the time of follow-up evaluation, 80 hips were available for review The mean rate of linear wear was 0.15 mm/y, mean rate of three-dimensional femoral head displacement was 0.21 mm/y, and mean rate of volumetric wear was 121 mm(3)/y. Eight hips (10%) in this series had radiologic osteolysis around either the femoral or acetabular component. A significantly greater volumetric wear rate was found in patients who were younger, those with a higher activity level, these who received a 32-mm-diameter femoral head, and those with vertical orientation of their acetabular component. No relationship could be made with patient weight, gender, Harris hip score, or cup diameter.