for eMaxHealthAccording to a recent study conducted by Millennium Research Group (MRG) at the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons' annual meeting in San Francisco, CA, physicians anticipate changes in their usage of different acetabular bearing surfaces over the next 24 months.
Physician feedback indicated that over the next two years, 45% of respondents expect to increase their use of ceramic acetabular components in reconstructive hip implant surgery. Similarly, nearly 30% of respondents also indicated they would increase their use of metal acetabular bearing surfaces. Concerns related to the release of particulate debris from traditional polyethylene bearings, which leads to implant loosening and joint infections, has created increased interest in alternative bearing surfaces that are constructed from highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE), metal, ceramic, or hybrid materials.
"Surgeons indicated that clinical results and patient needs had the highest impact on their choice of bearing surface," says Andrea Cheng, Senior Analyst at Millennium Research Group. "As a result, over 50% of physicians surveyed used more than one type of acetabular bearing surface to reflect the diverse needs of their patients."
The results of this survey, as well as detailed market analyses, are included in Millennium Research Group's US Markets for Large Joint Reconstructive Implants 2008 report which includes industry competitors such as Biomet, DePuy, Exactech, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Wright Medical Technology, and Zimmer.
About Hip Implants
Primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures are performed to replace the complete hip joint. Primary THA devices consist of three components: a femoral stem, a femoral head, and an acetabular cup. The stem is commonly made from either cobalt or titanium alloys and is inserted into the reamed femur and affixed into place. The acetabular cup forms the replacement socket of the joint and is traditionally made from metal alloys with a polyethylene inner lining.
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