Management and outcomes of breakage in polyethylene-ceramic composite (Sandwich-type) liners: lessons from long-term follow-up

This case series reports the only 3 instances of ceramic liner breakage among patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) with polyethylene-ceramic composite (sandwich-type) liners at our center between 1999 and 2002. Breakages occurred at approximately 6 (n = 2) and 17 years (n = 1) after t...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Rodríguez, Daniel, Carnaval, Thiago, Rodríguez Chaves, Marcos del Carmen, Coscujuela i Mañá, Antoni, Agullo, Jose Luis, Videla, Sebastià
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Varias* (Consorci de Biblioteques Universitáries de Catalunya, Centre de Serveis Científics i Acadèmics de Catalunya)
Repositorio:Recercat. Dipósit de la Recerca de Catalunya
OAI Identifier:oai:recercat.cat:2445/222058
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/2445/222058
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Polietilè
Artroplàstia
Cirurgia ortopèdica
Polyethylene
Arthroplasty
Orthopedic surgery
Descripción
Sumario:This case series reports the only 3 instances of ceramic liner breakage among patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) with polyethylene-ceramic composite (sandwich-type) liners at our center between 1999 and 2002. Breakages occurred at approximately 6 (n = 2) and 17 years (n = 1) after the primary THA. Symptoms included audible crepitation, pain, and restricted motion during normal activities. Surgical revisions utilized a polyethylene liner and third-generation alumina ceramic head, with synovectomy and irrigation to remove debris (preventing third-body wear). All patients achieved good long-term outcomes. Although infrequent, the risk of breakage increases over time, and several patients still carry these liners years after THA. This case series underscores the importance of vigilant follow-up, patient education, and timely intervention to manage this infrequent but potentially catastrophic complication.