[Replacement of the distal radius joint surface with silicone rubber in animal experiments on monkeys]

According to appearance in high percentage the recent techniques of prosthetic implants are not sufficient in cases of destruction of wrist or arthrosis. Therefore in most cases even intensive physical training cannot give adequate function by full pain relief. With the development of a silicon-caoutchout-prosthesis to replace only cartilage surface without fixation with cement we get a new way, to implant without extensive-resection of bone. The prosthetic material ist very similar to cartilage in hardness and elasticity. Examinations were made on 8 baboons with the result that there was no restriction in function even at full load 6 weeks postoperatonem. Radiological examinations in an observation period of 9 months did not show any significant change as to destruction in the surrounding of prosthetic stem or the articulating surfaces of cartilage and prosthesis.