Analysis of removed autophor ceramic-on-ceramic components.

Six Autophor alumina ceramic total hip arthroplasty components (5 removed for stem loosening and 1 for cup loosening) were evaluated to determine the nature and extent of wear by direct measurement, scanning electron microscopy of wear debris, and histology. Component implantation averaged 29 months (range, 8-54 months). All components had evidence of marked wear, including gross loss of material, which increased with the duration of implantation.