| abstract |
For acetabular cups, which consist of a socket housing and a socket insert made of ceramic, which can be inserted into the socket housing, the joining surfaces of the two components must be machined precisely because inaccuracies can result in uneven stress concentrations in the socket inserts, which lead to a reduction in the strength of the component. In addition, contamination due to operation can impair the durability of the clamp connection. For this reason, means for homogenizing the power transmission are arranged between the ceramic cup insert and the metal cup housing. A layer of plastic, in particular polyethylene, is known. However, a coupling element made of polyethylene has the disadvantage that it is not resistant to cold flow. In addition, relative movements between the coupling element and the socket housing can occur, whereby abrasion can be generated. DOLLAR A According to the invention, a coupling element (5) inserted between the socket housing (2) and the socket insert (3) of the acetabular cup (1) is therefore proposed, the elasticity and damping properties of which can be predetermined by its porosity and the structure of its surface. |