The forces generated as a knee or hip goes through its range of motion require a strong material that can withstand repeated sliding and rotating. High fatigue strength and toughness are needed.

The ideal TJA (total joint arthroplasty) material should also be smooth and resist abrasion to minimize generation of wear particles. This combination of properties has been difficult to find – until the introduction of a revolutionary material for joint implants –
OXINIUM^◊ Oxidized Zirconium.

While a ceramic implant provides a smooth, abrasion-resistant articular surface, it has poor fracture toughness and may shatter when impacted. On the other hand, metal implants have an excellent fracture toughness but tend to roughen and scratch over time, gouging the polyethylene and producing particles. ^1,2

Efforts to reduce the wear rate of metal implants through surface modifications have had difficulty with durability. Coatings can crack, chip or peel, especially when damaged. Through a patented process, oxygen is absorbed into zirconium metal, actually transforming the surface to ceramic while the rest of the material remains metal to retain its strength. The result is in a superior bearing surface. Please review the information within this site to learn more about this superior option for TJA or call your local Smith & Nephew sales representative.

References

1. R.H. Zimlich, M. Levesque, W. Jones, H.D. Schutte, Jr., B.J. Livingston, W. Sauer, M. Spector, and K. Weaver, "In-vitro and in-vivo effect of particulate debris on TKA articulating surfaces", scientific exhibit SE038, 65th Ann. Mtg. Am. Acad. Orthop. Surg., New Orleans, LA, March 19-23, 1998.

2. M. Levesque, B.J. Livingston, W.M. Jones, and M. Spector, "Scratches on condyles in normal functioning total knee arthroplasty", Trans. 44th Ann. Mtg. Orthop. Res. Soc., Orthopaedic Research Society, Chicago, IL, 1998, p. 247.