The Journal of arthroplasty
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Case Reports
Progressive bilateral pelvic osteolysis in a patient with McKee-Farrar metal-metal total hip prostheses.
As accumulating evidence indicates that polyethylene plays a central role in periprosthetic osteolysis, there is a renewed interest in alternatives such as metal-metal bearings. Several long-term studies report encouraging results with the McKee-Farrar total hip arthroplasty, but there is a paucity of data on the incidence, severity, and pathogenesis of osteolysis in metal-metal bearing total hip arthroplasties. This study presents a patient who had progressive bilateral pelvic osteolysis associated with his McKee-Farrar metal-metal total hip prostheses. ⋯ When bone becomes part of the effective joint space, it is exposed to particulate debris, soluble factors, and potentially increased joint fluid pressures, which may promote localized bone resorption. It must be kept in mind that the development of osteolysis is multifactorial. Although bearings with better wear characteristics are desirable, the elimination of polyethylene will not eliminate osteolysis.