Dual mobility acetabular components can reduce the incidence of total hip arthroplasty (THA) instability. Modular dual mobility (MDM) components facilitate acetabular component implantation. However, corrosion can occur at modular junctions. Serum cobalt and chromium levels and Oxford scores were obtained at minimum two year follow-up for 100 consecutive patients who had THA with MDM components. Average Oxford score was 43 (range 13-48). Average serum cobalt and chromium values were 0.7 mcg/L (range, 0.0 to 7.0) and 0.6 mcg/L (range, 0.1 to 2.7), respectively. MARS MRI was performed for four patients with pain and elevated serum cobalt levels. Two of these studies were consistent with adverse local tissue reaction. We recommend use of MDM implants in only patients at high risk for dislocation following THA.
Keywords: adverse local tissue reaction; chromium level; cobalt level; fretting corrosion; modular dual mobility components; total hip arthroplasty.
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