Short-term results with the Zweymueller-SL metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty

In a prospective study we followed 266 consecutive patients who received 350 Zweymueller-SL uncemented total hip replacements with metal-on-metal articulation for osteoarthritis. Mean follow-up was 52 (range 37-92) months. Patient age at the time of surgery was 55±9 (25-70) years. Pre-operative Harris score of 45±19 was increased post-operatively to 96±4. Pre-operative invalidity was significantly improved post-operatively (P<0.001), and 97% of the patients were either satisfied or very satisfied with the results. There was no aseptic loosening of either component. Revision was made in six hips (1.8%) because of either septic loosening (five, 1.5%) or technical error (one, 0.3%). At revision, surgical microscopic evidence for metalosis (Mirra grades 1 and 2) was shown in all revised hips. The reasons for early loosening were unrelated to the metal-on-metal bearing but rather were the result of either low-grade deep infection or inadequate surgical technique. Survival rate for Zweymueller screw socket and stem 7.6 years after implantation was 99.4% and 96.8% respectively. There was no evidence that metal-on-metal articulation gives rise to new problems or complications.