Prevention of Fretting Crevice Corrosion of Modular Taper Interfaces in Orthopedic Implants

A thin high strength polymer based self-reinforced composite (SRC) made from a biocompatible and commonly used orthopedic implant material is interposed between the hard connections of the modular taper interface of an orthopedic implant. A thick film of this ultra high strength SRC with the fibers oriented to maximally resist the fretting motion and wear, can be interposed between the modular components to result in a relatively soft, non-conducting interposed layer that will prevent contact between hard interfaces and reduce or eliminate the oxide film abrasion associated with this mechanism. Alternatively, the SRC may be formed using surface control methods resist fretting, such as by using sticky-compliant surfaces and channels for fluid, among others.