Risk Stratification Algorithm for Management of Patients with Metal-on-Metal Hip Arthroplasty

There should be a low threshold to perform a systematic evaluation of patients with MoM hip arthroplasty as early recognition and diagnosis will facilitate the initiation of appropriate treatment prior to significant adverse biological reactions. A painful MoM hip arthroplasty has various intrinsic and extrinsic causes, and a systematic treatment approach based on the currently available data is presented to optimize management of MoM patients. The risk stratification algorithm presented will continue to develop as further evidence becomes available providing additional insights. While specialized tests such as metal ion analysis are useful modalities for assessing MoM hip arthroplasty, over-reliance on any single investigative tool in the clinical decision-making process should be avoided. Future research focusing on validation of the current diagnostic tools for detecting adverse local tissue reactions as well as optimization of MoM bearings and modular connections to further diminish wear and corrosion is warranted.