Frequently Asked Questions by Patients: What is ceramic-on-ceramic and why is it used in Total Hip Replacement? Ceramics have long been used in the medical community for their strength characteristics and durability. These characteristics make ceramic an attractive option for total hip replacement, as the implants tend to wear very slowly.   How long have orthopaedic surgeons been using ceramics? The use of ceramics in orthopaedic procedures dates back to the early 1970s. More than 2 million ceramic components have been implanted and it is universally agreed that the wear reductions brought on by ceramics can help sustain the life of your prosthesis. New manufacturing processes as well as material properties have reduced many of the risks that were seen with early ceramic devices. Through November 2003 Wright Medical Technology Inc. has followed more than 1700 ceramic-on-ceramic components in the largest IDE study to date for total hip replacement. (Data on file at WMT)   What are these ceramics composed of? Ceramics are composed of both metals and non-metals, which form a solid compound, unlike polymer which are formed through long chains of carbon and hydrogen. Wright's ceramic is an alumina ceramic, which is composed of a compound of aluminum and oxygen. This composition does not react adversely with the body.   Is ceramic carcinogenic? Does it cause cancer? There have been no reports of ceramic causing cancer.   How do I locate a surgeon in my area that performs a ceramic on ceramic total hip replacement? You can click on the link below and look up the surgeon locator to find a surgeon near you. http://www.wmt.com/PhysLocator/PhysLoc.asp