Error in surgical technique causing ceramic acetabular liner fracture in primary total hip arthroplasty – A report of two cases

Abstract

In view of excellent tribological properties and good survivorship, ceramic on ceramic bearing surfaces for hip arthroplasty are becoming increasing popular in carefully selected young and active patients. Though the complication of ceramic liner fracture is well known, it is rarely reported in published literature. Two cases of the fracture of ceramic liner are being reported following errors in surgical technique in primary total hip arthroplasty. These fractures were encountered during post-operative follow-up and managed by revision of the acetabular liner and ceramic head components in both the cases with uneventful outcome. These two cases highlight the requirement of meticulous surgical techniques to prevent any intra-operative malaligned ceramic liner which can potentially lead to catastrophes like ceramic liner fracture.