[Histology of the implant-bone interface in cemented and uncemented endoprostheses]

The introduction of bone cement into endoprosthetic surgery was a significant step forward from the 'pre-cement' era. Nonetheless, its disadvantages soon stimulated the search for better means of anchoring implants without cement. Interest focuses on the so-called interface zone, which is the area between bone and foreign body. On the basis of light-microscopical findings our understanding of the biological and biomechanical interactions has influenced the principles of prosthetic design and the implant materials selected for use. The present article gives a synopsis of the histomorphology of the interface, with special reference to stability, tissue reactions, wear products, and implant fixation at bone surfaces (concerning bony ingrowth, osseointegration, and bonding). In all, 127 histological specimens of total hip and knee revisions were reviewed, in addition to a total of 24 non-cemented polyethylene cups retrieved at autopsy.