| abstract |
An orthopaedic joint prosthesis comprises a first joint component and a second joint component. Each of the components is formed from a metal body and has a bearing surface which engages the corresponding bearing surface of the other component when the prosthesis is implanted. Each of the metal bodies has a ceramic coating applied to it at the bearing surface, the coating comprising a chromium compound and being at least about 5 νm thick. The coatings which can be different, for example so that the difference between the hardnesses of the materials of the coatings which are applied to the first and second joint components is less than about 5000 MPa. Preferably, the metal from which at least one of the first and second joint components is made has a modulus of at least about 150 GPa. |