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No clinical benefits seen with oxidized zirconium vs cobalt-chromium femoral components for TKR
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Results from this retrieval study demonstrated oxidized zirconium femoral implants for total knee replacement had no clinical advantages compared to cobalt-chromium femoral components with regard to surface damage, penetration depth and wear volume.
Researchers examined the wear and damage on the surface of 26 matched pairs of cobalt-chromium femoral components and oxidized zirconium femoral components retrieved after total knee replacement. The cobalt-chromium components were implanted for a mean of 23 months, and the oxidized zirconium components were implanted for a mean of 21 months. Investigators used the modified Brandt semiquantative grading method to assess the surface damage on the polyethylene inserts. Varus alignment, valgus alignment and posterior tibial slope were calculated with pre-revision surgery plain films. The surface geometry of the polyethylene inserts, in vivo wear and plastic deformation were obtained with microcomputed tomography. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine whether age significantly contributed to wear volume and penetration depth.
Findings showed the groups were not significantly different with regard to surface damage. Investigators also noted there were no differences in surface penetration and wear volume between the groups. Penetration and wear volume were associated with post damage scores.
According to results of a regression analysis, patient age did not significantly correlate with penetration depth or wear volume.‒ by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosures: Gascoyne reports he receives other financial or material support from Smith & Nephew. Please see the full study for a list of all other authors’ relevant financial disclosures.
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