Liner/Shell Load Transfer Mechanisms in a Modular Acetabular Component for Total Hip Replacement

Modular acetabular components have seen widespread clinical use since the 1980’s (Collier et al., 1992). However, nonconformity between the polyethylene liner and the metal shell may exist in modular acetabular components by design, due to limitations on polyethylene liner manufacturing tolerances, or from the incorporation of locking mechanisms to attach the liner to the shell. Previous research has demonstrated that the stresses at the articulating surface are sensitive to nonconformity between the liner and the metal shell (Kurtz et al., 1994). Deleterious rim loading may also occur in a rimmed polyethylene liner with radial interference between the liner and the metal shell (Kurtz et al., 1993).