Abstract
Abstract
The contact mechanics of two metal-on-metal (MOM) total hip prostheses was studied by means of the finite element method (FEM). The purpose of the work was to compare two total hip replacements (Durom™ and Metasul™) with regard to the amount of wear debris released. Wear on the bearing surfaces was evaluated following Reye hypotheses from the pressure distribution, computed by means of three-dimensional FEM models; an approximate analytical model based on Hertz contact theory has also been developed and discussed. The results show that in the dry friction condition the Durom™ joint releases almost twice as much wear volume as produced by the Metasul™ joint. Therefore, while Durom™ implants can improve hip stability by increasing the prosthetic impingement-free range of motion (PIF-ROM), Metasul™ prostheses can be a valuable solution whenever wear represents a critical choice factor.
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