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Biotribological Testing and Analysis of Articular Cartilage Sliding against Metal for Implants
Published on: May 14, 2020
Comparative surface examinations on corund blasted titanium implants and explants in total hip arthroplasty
Alexander Schuh1, Wolfgang Uter, Werner Kachler
1Orthopedic Clinic Rummelsberg, Schwarzenbruck, Germany. Schuh-Alexander@t-online.de
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery
|September 29, 2005
Summary
Corundum particles (Al2O3) are found on hip implant surfaces, with higher levels on new devices than explants. This suggests potential third-body wear issues related to surface treatments.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Tribology
Background:
- Surface treatments using corundum blasting are common for hip implants.
- Residual particles may be linked to early implant loosening via third-body wear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and quantity of corundum (Al2O3) particles on hip implant surfaces.
- To compare particle adherence on unused versus explanted hip implants.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of five unused and five explanted CLS stems and ARR-Titan supporting rings.
- Microscopic examination to quantify adhered Al2O3 particles on implant surfaces.
Main Results:
- ARR-Titan rings showed 23.2% Al2O3 adherence on unused implants vs. 12.3% on explants (P < 0.0001).
- CLS stems exhibited 16.4% Al2O3 adherence on unused implants vs. 12.4% on explants (P = 0.0275).
Conclusions:
- Significant corundum particle contamination is present on ready-to-use, rough-blasted titanium hip implant surfaces.
- Explanted implants show significantly less particle contamination, indicating potential particle reduction or migration post-implantation.
