German and American researchers have conducted one of the first studies indicating a direct link between patient activity and the rate of linear wear in total hip replacements using alumina heads and conventional polyethylene.
Using univariate regression analysis, Finn and colleagues were able to assess weight, age at surgery, peak activity, medium intensity steps, high intensity steps, inclination angle and acetabular anteversion, according to the abstract. Age, weight, gender and cup position were not associated with the linear wear rate.