Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 18, 2026
06:58
A Structured Rehabilitation Protocol for Improved Multifunctional Prosthetic Control: A Case Study
Published on: November 6, 2015
Analysis of failed Van Straten LPM proximal interphalangeal prostheses
M C Bone1, J L Cunningham, J Lord
1School of Mechanical and Systems Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. martin.bone2@newcastle.ac.uk
The Journal of Hand Surgery, European Volume
|September 20, 2012
Summary
Failed Van Straten Leuwen Poeschmann Metal (LPM) prostheses showed significant wear and coating failure. This debris likely caused the reported osteolysis, indicating a need for improved implant materials.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Materials Engineering
Background:
- The Van Straten Leuwen Poeschmann Metal (LPM) prosthesis was designed for proximal interphalangeal joints.
- High revision rates (29% at 19 months) and osteolysis were reported with LPM implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a forensic retrieval analysis of failed LPM prostheses.
- To investigate the wear mechanisms and material failures contributing to clinical issues.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of five retrieved LPM cobalt-chromium components (three distal, two proximal).
- Utilized Talysurf contacting profilometry, ZYGO noncontacting profilometry, and environmental-scanning electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- All retrieved components exhibited severe wear.
- The titanium-niobium coating showed scratching, penetration, and removal, potentially due to corrosion.
- Wear debris from the coating and substrate is implicated in the observed osteolysis.
Conclusions:
- The failure of the titanium-niobium coating on LPM prostheses is linked to wear and corrosion.
- Wear debris generated from these failures is a probable cause of clinical osteolysis.
- Findings suggest a need for improved coating adhesion and material integrity in joint prostheses.
