Hip Wear Test
This test method describes the loading and displacement parameters for in vitro wear testing of total hip replacements (THR). Up to 6 hip systems plus two load soaks can be tested on the OIC’s AMTI Hip Simulator. Wear is measured through gravimetric analysis following ISO 14242-2 intermittently throughout the test until reaching 5 million cycles. Fluid samples may be collected and evaluated for particle characterization (ASTM F1877). Typical add-ons for this test are accelerated aging of polyethylene components (ASTM 2003), surface roughness characterization, and CMM measurement to evaluate dimensional changes resulting from the test. Adverse condition testing is also commonly performed to evaluate THR device performance under non-ideal conditions such as increased load, high range of motion, and roughened or pre-damaged articular surfaces.
This test method may also be modified to suit a set-up and appropriate loading conditions for dual mobility hip replacements. Dual mobility systems can be tested in a constrained (locked inner articulation) or unconstrained configuration.
