Implant technology evolved considerably since the first introduction of total hip replacement prosthesis at 1950`s. Implant failure, aseptic loosening and prosthesis infection are the most common post-operative problems, and tribologic science developed to overcome these. Today different manufacturers produce a variety of implants, each having some pros and cons, and none of them proved superiority to others. These implants can be classified into two main groups in general: hard bearing implants and soft ones. Metal, oxinium and ceramic are the hard ones while polyethylene and derivatives consist the soft bearing group. Patients` physiological condition, expectations, activity level, primary pathology and the perference of the surgeon determine the surface selection.

Even today no bearing surface is the gold standard or considered as good for all patient groups. Thus, for arthroplasty surgeon, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of the materials is crucial.