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J Am Acad Orthop Surg, Vol 14, No 12, November 2006, 646-655.
© 2006 the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
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Applications of Porous Tantalum in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Brett Levine, MD, Craig J. Della Valle, MD and Joshua J. Jacobs, MD

Dr. Levine is Adult Reconstruction Fellow, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Dr. Della Valle is Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Jacobs is Crown Family Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center.

Dr. Levine has received nothing of value from nor owns stock in a commercial company or institution related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article. Dr. Della Valle or the department with which he is affiliated has received research or institutional support from Zimmer. Dr. Della Valle or the department with which he is affiliated has received nonincome support (such as equipment or services), commercially derived honoraria, or other non-research–related funding (such as paid travel) from Zimmer. Dr. Della Valle or the department with which he is affiliated serves as a consultant to or is an employee of Zimmer. Dr. Jacobs or the department with which he is affiliated has received research or institutional support from Zimmer, Wright Medical, and Medtronics. Dr. Jacobs or the department with which he is affiliated serves as a consultant to or is an employee of Zimmer, Wright Medical, and Medtronics.

Porous tantalum is an alternative metal for total joint arthroplasty components that offers several unique properties. Its high volumetric porosity (70% to 80%), low modulus of elasticity (3 MPa), and high frictional characteristics make it conducive to biologic fixation. Tantalum has excellent biocompatibility and is safe to use in vivo. The low modulus of elasticity allows for more physiologic load transfer and relative preservation of bone stock. Because of its bioactive nature and ingrowth properties, tantalum is used in primary as well as revision total hip arthroplasty components, with good to excellent early clinical results. In revision arthroplasty, standard and custom augments may serve as a structural bone graft substitute. Formation of a bone-like apatite coating in vivo affords strong fibrous ingrowth properties and allows for substantial soft-tissue attachment, indicating potential for use in cases requiring reattachment of muscles and tendons to a prosthesis. Development of modular components and femoral stems also is being evaluated. The initial clinical data and basic science studies support further investigation of porous tantalum as an alternative to traditional implant materials.




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Correspondence
J. Am. Acad. Ortho. Surg., March 1, 2007; 15(3): 137 - 138.
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