Biomarkers of Hip Implant Function

Nearly all orthopaedic surgeons have implanted a cobalt-chromium hip, and most general practitioners have at least one patient with a cobalt-chromium prosthesis on their books. The recent worldwide controversy surrounding metal-on-metal bearings – and increasing concern over the use of metallic biomaterials in general – means that advice on how to manage patients with metal implants is of great interest to these professionals. Specifically, they want to know if there are any diagnostic tests that could be performed to gain clues about implant performance and the risk of local or systemic toxicity.

Biomarkers of Hip Implant Function aims to bring together all established and promising new biomarkers and critically evaluate their clinical usefulness. Researchers will benefit from an updated, comprehensive view of the topic to identify underexplored areas. Orthopaedic surgeons and general practitioners will use the book to monitor implant performance and manage their patients. The work may also benefit engineers and joint implant manufacturers by guiding improvements in implant design, and be of interest to regulators and policymakers to inform guidelines on the follow-up of hip implant recipients.