Nickel dermatitis hazards from prostheses. In vivo and in vitro solubilization studies

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials science
• Toxicology
• Orthopedic surgery

Background:

• Implanted prostheses are common in orthopedic surgery.
• Stainless steel is a frequently used material for these implants.
• Concerns exist regarding potential adverse effects of metallic ions released from implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing data on nickel hazards associated with implanted prostheses.
• To investigate the release mechanisms of nickel from stainless steel implants.
• To assess the in-vivo distribution and accumulation of released nickel.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on nickel release from stainless steel.
• Analysis of data from laboratory animal studies involving implanted prostheses.
• Examination of nickel concentrations in tissues adjacent to implants.

Main Results:

• Nickel is demonstrably released from stainless steel prostheses.
• Bodily fluids including sweat, blood, and saline solutions act as catalysts for nickel release.
• Solubilized nickel was detected in tissues surrounding implants in laboratory animals.

Conclusions:

• Nickel release from stainless steel implants is a verified phenomenon.
• The presence of nickel in periprosthetic tissues indicates potential local toxicity.
• Further research is warranted to fully understand the long-term clinical implications of nickel exposure from implants.