Metallisation of Biolox Delta® ceramic head: What's wrong?

INTRODUCTION: Since the recent failure of certain coating models, hybrid implants (coated acetabular inserts with conventional stems) and stems with modular necks, there has been growing interest in the consequences of the generation and release of metal particles at the prosthetic interfaces. The use of ceramic heads has recently been described as an option for reducing the production of metal ions and their consequences.

CASE REPORT: The present case report describes the first complete metallisation of a ceramic head secondary to an excessive release of metal ions at the head-neck junction.

CONCLUSIONS: We believe this to have occurred due to the use of 12/14 cones of different manufacturers.