Daniel Allen Heuer

Chemically Textured and Oxidized Zirconium Surfaces for Implant Fixation

Introduction. Implant stability is critical in obtaining good long term succe ss of total joint replacements. Loss of fixation can lead to accelerated wear, pa in, loss of function, or even fracture of the implant, each of which could potentially necessitate revision s urgery. Biological and cemented fixation strengths can be increased by using porous or textur ed surfaces which enhance the potential for mechanical interdigitation at the interface. O xidized zirconium, a material recently introduced for orthopaedic bearing applications (OxiniumTM, Smith & Nephew, I nc., Memphis, TN) due to its beneficial wear and abrasion resistance [1-2], cannot be e asily processed using traditional porous coating techniques. Therefore, an alternative fixation surface whi h could be used with or without bone cement was sought.