Although in widespread use in certain centers abroad, alternative bearing surfaces are currently in the developmental or early clinical stage in the United States. There are numerous manufacturing, regulatory, scientific, and clinical issues that need to be carefully examined prior to the widespread introduction of these devices. STP 1346 reflects the discussion of these issues in the context of relevant standards development.

18 peer-reviewed papers written by members of industry, academia, clinical practice, and the regulatory and standards communities are presented in four sections: Wear Testing (2 papers); • Metal-on-Metal Bearings (9 papers); • Ceramic Bearings (4 papers); • and Alternative Polymeric Bearings (3 papers).