Evidence from the Australian registry has shown that not a single new knee or hip prosthesis had a lower failure rate than that of the established prostheses.

NEWYORKER: Big Med

Metal on metal hip resurfacing is considered to be a much better option because it has a lower failure rate and is more cost effective since it does not need to be repeated as often as a total hip replacement.

BBC: NHS arthritis treatment for young

Depending on how far below the industry failure rate Merck gets, its costs could be even lower.

FORBES: Genomics Revolution Actually Happens

But the lower capital gains and dividend rate don't expire until Dec. 31, 2008 and Silverblatt doubts Congress' failure to act this year would have much effect.

FORBES: Magazine Article