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Finite element analysis was used to examine the initial stability after hip resurfacing and the effect of the procedure on the contact mechanics at the articulating surfaces. Models were created with the components positioned anatomically and loaded physiologically through major muscle forces. Total micromovement of less than 10 mum was predicted for the press-fit acetabular components models, much below the 50 mum limit required to encourage osseointegration. Relatively high compressive acetabular and contact stresses were observed in these models. The press-fit procedure showed a moderate influence on the contact mechanics at the bearing surfaces, but produced marked deformation of the acetabular components. No edge contact was predicted for the acetabular components studied. It is concluded that the frictional compressive stresses generated by the 1 mm to 2 mm interference-fit acetabular components, together with the minimal micromovement, would provide adequate stability for the implant, at least in the immediate post-operative situation.

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To ensure potential long-term stability and survivorship for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing prostheses, implant migration would need to be minimised to encourage bone in-growth. This study uses the finite element method to investigate the effects of the surgical press-fit procedure on the bearing and interfacial contact mechanics, and on the initial stability of a metal-on-metal (MOM) hip resurfacing prosthesis. The finite element models simulated the press-fit procedure using different amounts of interference between the cup-bone (1–2mm). The resurfacing prosthesis was implanted anatomically into a 3-D bone model. Resultant hip joint loads were applied to the model through muscle and subtrochanteric forces. Results showed that increasing the friction and the interference between the cup and bone resulted in significant reductions in the relative micromotion between the cup and bone. This would ensure the immediate post-operative stability of the acetabular cup and provide adequate conditions for potential long-term bone in-growth and implant stability. The contact mechanics at the bearing surfaces, which has a large effect on tribological performance, was found to be little affected by changes at the cup-bone interface. These findings are consistent with the general satisfactory short and medium-term clinical results of metal-on-metal hip resurfacing prostheses. This study suggests that interference, friction and a mechanically sound bone structure are important parameters to promote implant stability and support.