[The problem of fractures of ceramic heads. What should be done?].

Fractures of ceramic heads in total hip arthroplasty are also seen in modern implants. They are more likely in S-heads with reduced ceramic thickness between the tip of the taper and the surface. Failures of ceramic inlays have been seen especially in sandwich type inlays or in cup designs with reduced range of motion causing impingement of the neck. The precise positioning of the cup is therefore of major importance. In cases of fractured ceramic implants, CoCr-heads or PE-inlays are commonly used. The use of stainless steel heads in revision surgery due to ceramic fractures is obsolete.