Catastrophic failure due to massive osteolysis of both acetabular and femoral components in a metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty: a demonstrative case report

Metal-on-metal (MOM) bearing surfaces in total hip arthroplasty have been recently shown to have acceptable survivorship properties, and they have certain advantages and disadvantages when compared to conventional metal-on-polyethylene bearing surfaces. Like traditional metal-on-polyethylene bearings, these metal-on-metal implants may also suffer from catastrophic failure. Patients can develop a local reaction to the metal ions produced by the articulation and present with pain or early loosening due to the local inflammatory reaction. The possible effects of MOM wear debris and its corrosion products are still the subject of debate. This case report represents an unusual situation in a 63-year-old woman in which extensive lysis derived in massive femoral osteolysis and hip arthroplasty catastrophic failure.