| You and your surgeon have chosen a total hip prosthesis with ceramic surfaces as the best treatment option. Ceramic joint surfaces offer excellent wear resistance for young, active people. The durability of these implants may allow you to keep this prosthesis for the rest of your life. However, because of the hardness of the ceramic, you may hear some noises. |  |
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The different sounds heard : 1. The click: When you move your hip, the prosthesis components may separate slightly (a few millimetres). This can cause “clicking” noises when the surfaces come back into contact. These noises are common in the weeks following surgery and disappear over time as the hip capsule seals completely. 2. Squeaking: During certain movements, particularly when changing position, e.g., from sitting to standing, a squeaking noise, similar to that of a door hinge, can be heard. The noise usually disappears after a few steps. This noise is due to direct contact between the two ceramic surfaces, which are not adequately lubricated. After a few movements, joint fluid interposes between the surfaces, eliminating the noise. This type of noise can appear early or several years after surgery. 3. Any other noise: Your soft tissues (muscles/tendons) surrounding the prosthesis can sometimes be responsible for noises during a particular movement: crackling, rumbling, etc. |
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| Why shouldn’t you worry? These noises, although surprising, are generally a benign phenomenon and not necessarily a sign of trouble. Most of the time, these noises are not a cause for concern for the following reasons: • Normality: Noises from hip prostheses with ceramic surfaces are common and considered to be expected. • Absence of pain: Unless the noises are accompanied by pain, swelling or other worrying symptoms, there’s usually nothing to worry about. • Temporary and intermittent: In most cases, noises are occasional and may disappear over time. |
Almost 50% of patients with a ceramic prosthesis will hear noises in the years following their surgery. |
What you need to do
If you hear noises associated with your hip prosthesis and are not experiencing pain or other unusual symptoms, we encourage you to continue leading an active lifestyle. You should avoid the specific movements that cause these noises.However, if you experience pain, hip instability, or any other worrisome symptoms, it’s important to contact your orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation.
We hope this information has helped you understand why noise from your ceramic hip prosthesis is generally harmless. Your health and well-being are our priority, and we’ll be there for you throughout your recovery.
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