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Multi-Scale Modification of Metallic Implants With Pore Gradients, Polyelectrolytes and Their Indirect Monitoring In vivo
Published on: July 1, 2013
Time- and depth-dependent changes in crosslinking and oxidation of shelf-aged polyethylene acetabular liners
R J Jacob1, D Pienkowski, K Y Lee
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0084, USA.
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research
|May 8, 2001
Summary
Shelf-aged ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) liners show time- and depth-dependent oxidation and crosslinking. Resin choice significantly impacts UHMWPE
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Orthopedic Engineering
Background:
- Ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a critical material in total joint replacements, and its wear resistance is influenced by crosslinking and oxidation.
- Shelf-aged UHMWPE acetabular liners, ready for implantation, undergo changes over time that can affect their long-term performance.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for improving the longevity and clinical success of orthopedic implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the time and depth dependence of crosslinking and oxidation in shelf-aged UHMWPE acetabular liners.
- To examine the ultrastructural characteristics of these UHMWPE materials.
- To correlate material properties with resin type and potential effects on wear resistance.
Main Methods:
- Solvent extraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to quantify oxidation and crosslinking.
- Low-voltage scanning electron microscopy in an oil-free vacuum was employed to analyze material ultrastructure.
- Analysis focused on liners aged between 2 and 11 years.
Main Results:
- Oxidation levels increased with time and depth from the surface, peaking at 1-2 mm, while crosslinking decreased and was inversely proportional to oxidation.
- UHMWPE liners made from GUR 415 and 412 resins exhibited significant, depth-dependent oxidation, unlike a comparably aged liner from 1900 CM-resin.
- Variations in material ultrastructure, including porosity and inhomogeneity, were observed and potentially linked to oxidation resistance.
Conclusions:
- Oxidation and crosslinking in UHMWPE are time- and depth-dependent, mutually competitive processes.
- Resin choice and processing appear to influence UHMWPE ultrastructure, affecting its oxidation resistance.
- Ultrastructural variations may explain differences in clinical performance and suggest strategies for improving wear resistance in total joint implants.
