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Ageing and moisture uptake in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cements
Wayne Nishio Ayre1, Stephen P Denyer2, Samuel L Evans1
1School of Engineering, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 3AA, UK.
Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials
|January 22, 2014
Summary
Bone cement degradation from moisture uptake and hydrolysis reduces mechanical strength, contributing to aseptic loosening in joint replacements. Developing more resilient bone cements is crucial for implant longevity.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Materials Degradation
Background:
- Bone cements are vital in orthopaedic joint arthroplasty.
- Aseptic loosening remains a significant cause of implant failure over time.
- The precise mechanisms of bone cement degradation in vivo are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of physiological ageing on commercial bone cements.
- To analyze changes in moisture uptake, microstructure, and mechanical properties.
- To understand the contribution of cement degradation to implant failure.
Main Methods:
- Two commercial bone cements were aged in isotonic fluid at physiological temperatures.
- Moisture uptake was quantified.
- Microstructural changes were examined.
- Mechanical and fatigue properties were assessed over time.
Main Results:
- Water penetration followed Fickian diffusion, attributed to monomer leaching.
- Bone cements gained approximately 2% weight after 30 days of ageing.
- Hydrolysis of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) occurred in outer layers.
- Mechanical and fatigue properties significantly decreased with ageing.
Conclusions:
- Bone cement ageing, driven by moisture uptake and hydrolysis, compromises mechanical integrity.
- This degradation is a key factor in the long-term failure of cemented joint replacements.
- There is a critical need for bone cements resistant to physiological degradation and improved testing methodologies.
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