In vivo wear reduction of argon compared to air sterilized UHMW-polyethylene liners

Introduction To date, no studies have been published that report on the in vivo advantages of sterilisation in argon (ARGON) versus air (AIR) of UHMWPE liners with respect to wear extend and pattern in uncemented total hip arthroplasty. Method Femoral penetration rates were measured in 93 AIR and 79 ARGON liners, during a mean follow-up of 8 (3–12) years. Results During the first 3 years after implantation, both groups showed no differences in mean wear rate ( P = 0.13). Thereafter, the ARGON liner demonstrated a decrease in wear rate of 0.04 mm/year from 4 to 6 years ( P = 0.006), 0.14 mm/year from 7 to 9 years ( P