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In Vivo Evaluation of Hemiarthroplasty Bearing Materials Using Animal Models: A Scoping Review (Part II)
Landon M Begin1,2, Victoria P Marino3,4, Francesca De Vecchi4
1Institute for Biology, Engineering, and Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
Summary
This review of hemiarthroplasty bearing materials (HBMs) in animal models found diverse testing methods. Further research is needed to identify optimal HBMs and evaluation practices for joint repair.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Hemiarthroplasty preserves bone and cartilage but faces challenges with implant wear against natural cartilage.
- Accelerated wear of articulating cartilage remains a significant issue in hemiarthroplasty outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review of animal model investigations on hemiarthroplasty bearing materials (HBMs).
- To summarize HBMs tested, animal models employed, survival durations, and outcome assessment methods.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search identified 1798 studies, with 24 in vivo studies meeting inclusion criteria.
- Data extraction focused on HBM types (metals, polymers, ceramics, carbons), animal models (canines, rabbits, sheep), survival times (2-104 weeks), and outcome assessments.
- Outcome assessments included gait analysis, imaging, histological staining (Safranin-O, H&E), and cartilage scoring (Mankin, Modified Mankin).
Main Results:
- Metals (63%) were the most studied HBMs, predominantly in canines (46%).
- Cartilage wear assessment methods and scoring systems (e.g., Mankin) varied significantly across studies.
- Histological staining was universally applied, but scoring criteria lacked standardization.
Conclusions:
- While commonalities exist in HBMs and animal models, diverse testing methodologies hinder the identification of best practices for evaluating HBM performance.
- Standardization of outcome measures and comparative evaluations are crucial for advancing hemiarthroplasty research.
