The natural history of ceramic-on-ceramic prosthetic hip squeak and its impact on patients.

BACKGROUND

Ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been scrutinised for a high incidence of post-operative squeak. The psychological and social consequences, and subsequent request for revision surgery are not well documented.

METHODS

Seventy consecutive primary CoC THA operated on by a single surgeon at a single institution were enroled and followed for an average 7.1 years. Information was obtained from routine post-operative review, medical records, mailed questionnaire and periodic phone interview.

RESULTS

Of 70 THA, 69 were available for follow-up. Seventeen (24.6 %) reported at least one instance of squeak, occurring on average 34.2 months post-operatively. Five (7.5 %) recalled being warned preoperatively of squeak as a potential complication. Six reported infrequent squeak and 11 frequent squeak. Ten were concerned, reporting embarrassment, harassment and anxiety regarding the longevity of their THA. One patient was planning revision surgery.

DISCUSSION: This study demonstrates the highest published prevalence of squeaking CoC THA and highlights the importance of warning patients of this potential complication.