Ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearing surfaces in total hip replacement have the advantage of the lowest wear rates but carry a unique audible complication. The mechanism of this complication is:
- A Impingement of the femoral neck on the acetabular rim during extreme motion
- B Stripe wear on the ceramic head generating high-frequency acoustic emission ✓
- C Fracture of the ceramic liner producing grinding sounds
- D Aseptic loosening of the acetabular shell causing clicking
Correct answer: B. Stripe wear on the ceramic head generating high-frequency acoustic emission
Explanation
Squeaking is the characteristic complication of CoC bearings, reported in 1–20% of patients. Stripe wear occurs when the head separates from the cup during activities (e.g., rising from a chair), contact is momentarily lost at the equator, and upon re-engagement a high-pitched squeak is generated. True ceramic fracture (C) presents as sudden catastrophic failure, not squeaking. Impingement-related clicking (A) occurs in any bearing but is a distinct phenomenon.
Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.