This book describes the history and properties of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) used in artificial joints.

UHMWPE is currently used in 1.4 million patients around the world every year for use in the hip, knee, upper extremities and spine. It has been used in hip replacements for over 40 years. Although the use of this material is very succcessful, the lifetime of artificial joints is limited to approximately 10 years, after which the survivorship declines markedly.

Recently, the orthopedic industry has developed new processing techniques (radiation crosslinking), which are expected to dramatically reduce wear and improve the longevity of hip implants beyond 10 years.