Professor Heinz Mittelmeier: Pioneer of Alumina-Bearing Couples
Professor Heinz Mittelmeier's efforts in joint replacement were revolutionary, particularly through the development of the Autophor® and Xenophor® systems. These systems, made of alumina, offered an alternative, highly biocompatible solution at a time when the use of polyethylen and metal in orthopedics revealed challenges due to wear and adverse reactions. The Autophor® and Xenophor® systems stood out for their innovative designs and superior material properties, leading to their early FDA approval in the 1980s.
These designs set new benchmarks in the orthopedic community, offering patients improved outcomes with less wear and longer implant lifespans.
Recognizing the potential of these alumina-based systems, the implant maker Osteos was one of the first to bring this design to market, solidifying the systems’ place in medical history as progressive solutions to critical orthopedic issues.
Innovative Legacy: From Skirted Heads to BIOLOX CONTOURA®
Professor Heinz Mittelmeier's early innovations, including skirted heads and Autophor® threaded cups, already pushed the era’s conventional limits of alumina ceramic materials.
Inspired by these early advancements, we still proudly offer innovative solutions like ceramic-on-ceramic hip resurfacing and the anatomical contoured head BIOLOX CONTOURA®. These unique designs continue to push the boundaries, leveraging the exceptional properties of BIOLOX®delta ceramics to enhance patient outcomes and expand the possibilities of hip replacement technology.
