The influence of stem taper re-use upon the failure load of ceramic heads

Ceramic components are frequently used in total hip replacement due to their good tribological properties. In revision of broken ceramic heads clinical uncertainties arise, whether the taper of the stem can be re-used with a new ceramic head, especially if the stem is well fixed. Ceramic is a brittle material. Even small damage on the male stem taper can lead to stress concentrations causing premature failure of a new ceramic head. As a...