Retrieval Analysis of Cross-linked Acetabular Bearings

Polyethylene acetabular bearings which have been purposely cross-linked with doses of radiation above the 2.5–4 Mrads historically used for sterilization are now being implanted clinically. While there are considerable data from hip simulators that suggest that the wear rate of these new, cross-linked materials may be lower than their predecessors [1], there are little clinical data available. This study provides the results of the analysis of six retrieved cross-linked acetabular bearings, all with implantation durations of less than two years.