Alumina and zirconia ceramics in joint replacements

Ceramic biomaterials have gained widespread use in arthroprostheses joints. Ceramic oxides including alumina as α-corundum Al2O3 and zirconia, as yttria-stabilised zirconia polycrystals, were used in large number of patients, especially in the manufacture of ball heads for hip replacements. The experience and the feedbacks gathered in more than 30-year clinical use of alumina, and 15-year use of zirconia are reviewed. The results of in vitro and in vivo studies on the biocompatibility of alumina and zirconia ceramics are analyzed as well as the studies on carcinogenicity.