Crosslinking has been shown to reduce the wear rate of polyethylene
by up to 89% in laboratory studies.1 Clinical experience
with highly crosslinked polyethylenes has also demonstrated a
substantial reduction in the rate of wear.2,3 This
remarkable process creates a three-dimensional structure that is more
resistant to abrasion.4,5
Longevity Highly Crosslinked Polyethylene was developed to
address the issue of wear in total hip arthroplasty. To help ensure
optimal wear resistance, Zimmer employs a proprietary process based in
part on patents licensed from Massachusetts General Hospital and the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Using high-dose electron-beam
radiation, this process fully crosslinks broken molecular polyethylene
chains, leaving virtually no free radicals to promote oxidation.
The process produces a 10-fold wear rate reduction—an average 89%
reduction of debris generated—compared to standard polyethylene
control samples.1 The material also meets all of the
mechanical property requirements of the ASTM and ISO standards.
Longevity Crosslinked Polyethylene is available with the Continuum
® Acetabular System, Trabecular Metal™ Modular
Acetabular System, and Trilogy
® Acetabular System, which is based on the long Zimmer
tradition of clinical success with the Harris-Galante™ and
HGP II porous cups.