Review Question - QID 2947

Modern hip resurfacing implants as shown in Figure A utilize metal-on-metal bearing components, thus polyethylene debris (Answer 4) and its potential subsequent osteolysis is not an option. Hip resurfacing has the potential advantages of preserving proximal femoral bone and providing physiologic stress transfer. Potential disadvantages include the inability to adjust offset and limb-length as readily compared to a conventional total hip arthroplasty. Aseptic loosening of the components can occur and would be an indication for conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Fracture of the femoral neck is the most common complication (0-4%) of hip resurfacing. Resurfacing has a lower incidence of dislocation compared to conventional hip arthroplasty but can still occur. The article by Anglin et al states that implanting the femoral component in 10 degrees of relative valgus and high bone mineral density was correlated with increased load to fracture. Notching of the superior femoral neck is associated with increased fracture risk.