Abstract
Despite its widespread use in the orthopedic community, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) remains the weak link in the prosthesis material chain. The vast majority of wear debris generated in total joint replacements originates from the UHMWPE component. These wear products lead to osteolysis, implant loosening and the eventual need for revision surgery. Therefore, the wear of UHMWPE is currently a significant concern in the orthopedic and material science communities. The current study focuses on the dimensional change wear in two types of unconstrained and non-conforming Miller-Galante retrieved tibial components. The hypothesis tested was: lift-off of the lateral side of the femoral component, which would produce large dimensional change near the outer medial compartment edges of the tibial components, does not occur in non-conforming tibial inserts.
