Table 1. Comparison of materials used in total hip arthroplasty.

Prosthesis	Advantages	Disadvantages
Metal-on-polyethylene	Large volume of evidence to support use Predictable lifespan Cost effective	Polyethylene debris leading to aseptic loosening
Metal-on-metal	Potentially longer lifespan than polyethylene due to reduced wear Larger femoral head - therefore lower dislocation rate	Metallosis Potential carcinogenic effect of metal ions
Ceramic-on-ceramic	Low friction Low debris particles Inert substance	Expensive Require expert insertion to prevent early damage Can produce noise on movement