The flexural strength, microstructure and relative Ca and Si concentration at the surface of two commercial orthopedic aluminas were studied before and after aging up to 52 weeks in simulated body fluids or in subcutaneous implantation in rodents. There was no significant reduction in flexural strength after aging, but there was evidence of Ca and Si dissolution from the external grain boundary surfaces, particularly for specimens aged in demineralized water. No change occurred in the Ca and Si concentrations within the specimen's bulk during either in vivo or in vitro aging.