The Squeaking Hip: A Phenomenon of Ceramic-on-Ceramic Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract

The squeaking hip is a phenomenon that is unique to total hip replacements with hard-on-hard bearings. The incidence of squeaking in association with ceramic-on-ceramic bearings may be higher than previously reported as <1% of the patients in the present study reported this finding before being queried. The causes and implications of squeaking are yet to be determined. The use of hard-on-hard bearings offers many advantages in terms of wear reduction, especially for young and active patients. Nonetheless, patients considering ceramic-on-ceramic bearings should be counseled with regard to this phenomenon.