How to image metal-on-metal prostheses and their complications.

OBJECTIVE

Metal-on-metal arthroplasty is a durable alternative to traditional metal-on-polyethylene total hip replacement for young active patients. Although midterm results for resurfacing arthroplasty are reasonable, there is increasing recognition of the problem of metal-induced periprosthetic reactive masses.

CONCLUSION

Imaging plays an important role in the investigation of symptomatic metal-on-metal arthroplasty. Radiographs will identify fracture and loosening, but cross-sectional imaging is required to diagnose and stage periprosthetic reactive masses.