PROSTHETIC DEVICES EMPLOYING OXIDIZED ZIRCONIUM SURFACES CONTACTING SURFACES OF CROSS-LINKED POLYETHYLENE

摘要

Orthopedic implants which includes the components of zirconium or zirconium-based alloys having surfaces coated with oxidized zirconium or alternatively, other orthopedic implants comprising abrasion resistant surfaces contacting surfaces of crosslinked polyethylene are disclosed. Such implants provide low friction, highly wear resistant coatings especially useful in artificial joints, knee joints, elbows, etc., but also useful in other implant devices as well.