Importance

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Abstract

An implantable orthopedic prosthesis includes a first component having a first bearing surface, and a second component having a second bearing surface. The second bearing surface is disposed in opposition to the first bearing surface in a sliding bearing relationship. At lease one of the first and second bearing surfaces includes a plurality of substantially evenly distributed plateaus interspersed with valleys. The plateaus comprise at least about 30% of the gross area of the bearing surface. The plateaus are distributed at a density of about 18 to about 25 plateaus per square inch of gross area of the bearing surface. The first and second bearing surfaces are substantially congruent to each other, and the plateaus have a smooth surface finish of less than about 8 .mu.m root mean square. The valleys have a depth of about 0.0002 inch to about 0.002 inch below the plateaus to facilitate lubrication of the articulating surfaces by natural body fluids.

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First Claim