Total hip arthroplasty with metal-on-metal bearing is associated with specific complications: local delayed hypersensitivity reaction (ALVAL) to metal particles, osteolysis and the development of pseudotumors. This process results from the low resistance of the metal bearing to abrasion and corrosion, which causes the release of metal ions into the surrounding tissues. This paper presents the case of a 54-year-old man who required revision surgery due to aseptic loosening of the endoprosthesis with a ceramic (TiN)-on-metal bearing. The removed implants were subjected to material analysis. Mean chemical analysis revealed that the main component of the residue samples was titanium, which constituted 65% of the sample weight, followed by calcium (16%), phosphorus (11%) and aluminum (3.8%). The fissures on the insert were a result of trauma caused by the head, with both elements matching in terms of visible damage. More than 50% of the surface of the head had been damaged due to abrasive wear. The transitional area between the normal and completely delaminated TiN coating shows uneven abrasion, a gradual decrease in coating thickness. In conclusion, the use of endoprosthesis heads with TiN ceramic coating involves very low polyethylene wear. The low resistance of TiN ceramic coating to trauma and the fragility of this coating prevent the use of TiN-coated heads in combination with any non-polyethylene hip endoprosthesis inserts.
Keywords: ALVAL; aseptic loosening of implants; ceramic coatings; pseudotumor.