The investigation into modes of failure of total hip replacements

Abstract

The investigation into modes of failure of total hip replacements was the purpose of this project. This involved the development of a finite element model of a simplified uncemented, simplified cemented and a geometrically real hip in order to study the behaviour of loosening of the prosthesis. Loosening of the femoral and acetabular components in total hip replacements are major long-term complications of hip replacements. Such loosening usually produces substantial loss of supporting bone making revision much more difficult and less successful than primary surgery. Implant loosening can be caused from resorption of the bone around the prosthesis from wear debris, insufficient osseointegration of the bone into the prosthesis and brittle failure of the bone cement.