Spontaneous resolution of asymptomatic alumina matrix composite ceramic liner dissociation: a case report

Background Total hip arthroplasty(THA)is widely used to treat end-stage hip disorders. Ceramic-on-ceramic total hip prostheses are widely used because of their durability. Alumina matrix composite (AMC), known as the fourth-generation ceramics, reduces implant fracture and wear rate compared to their predecessors. However, ceramic acetabular liner dissociation is a complication that necessitates revision of the AMC prostheses. To date, only few cases of AMC liner dissociation have been reported and all of which have been treated with revision surgery. Therefore, the prognosis of non-operated AMC liner dissociation remains unknown so far. Case presentation A 57-year-old man with avascular necrosis of the femoral head was treated with THA, wherein a Pinnacle[R] (DePuy, J&J, Warsaw, IN) acetabular cup and AMC liner were implanted. Intraoperative examination confirmed proper seating of the liner, whereas the initial postoperative radiograph revealed liner dissociation. The patient refused surgical revision due to the absence of symptoms and was discharged and followed-up. The patient made an uneventful recovery, and radiographic follow-up at 6-month post-operation showed that the liner was re-seated to its right position. No clinical or radiographic anomaly was found at the 15-month of postoperative follow-up. Conclusions Here, we report an unprecedented case of AMC ceramic liner dissociation with spontaneous resolution. This case shows that ceramic liner dissociation could be asymptomatic, and careful postoperative examination of the patient is important. Spontaneous resolution is possible, but the underlying mechanism and the eligible patient to benefit from it must be investigated. Before clarifying these questions, revision surgery should be the first-line treatment. Keywords: Total hip arthroplasty, Hip prostheses, Ceramics, Equipment failure