Belgium experience with metal-on-metal surface arthroplasty.

Abstract

Hybrid metal-on-metal surface arthroplasty of the hip has recently been introduced, with a vast number of implants used in European countries including Belgium. This article presents results in 252 hips with a mean follow-up of 2.8 years. Using a tight press-fit with minimal cement mantle as the technique of femoral fixation, there have been only three failures. The main complications have been avascular necrosis of the femoral head and femoral neck fracture. In most cases, patients returned to a high functional level with no restrictions in their physical activity and were highly satisfied. Future refinements in surgical technique and instruments will make this procedure more accessible and reproducible for the surgeon.