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Immunogenic potential of carpal implants.
D J Smith1, J A Sazy, J D Crissman
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48202.
The Journal of Surgical Research
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Animals sensitized to silicone developed immune responses to silicone carpal prostheses. This included cellular immunity and antibody production, indicating potential reactions to silicone implants.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Immunology
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Silicone materials are widely used in carpal prostheses.
- The immunologic response to silicone implants is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cellular and humoral immunologic responses to silicone carpal prostheses in previously sensitized animals.
Main Methods:
- Guinea pigs were sensitized to silicone emulsions and Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA).
- Sensitized animals and controls received FCA only, followed by carpal prosthesis implantation.
- Histology, skin testing, passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, and fluorescent antibody techniques were used to assess immune responses.
Main Results:
- Sensitized animals showed a mononuclear infiltrate around the prosthesis, indicating a cellular immune response.
- Skin testing and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis confirmed a specific immune response to silicone antigen.
- IgG deposition around silicone particles was observed in sensitized animals, indicating antibody production.
Conclusions:
- Microparticulate matter from silicone carpal implants can elicit both cellular and humoral immunologic responses.
- These findings suggest a potential immunologic basis for adverse reactions to silicone implants.