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In vivo experimental analysis of silicone implants used with titanium grommets
Y Minamikawa1, C A Peimer, R Ogawa
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Titanium grommets did not prevent silicone hinge implant fractures in rabbits. While grommets delayed fracture evidence, all implants eventually broke, showing this protective measure is ineffective.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Silicone hinge implants are used in orthopedic procedures.
- Implant fracture is a significant complication.
- Titanium grommets were proposed to mitigate hinge implant breakage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of titanium grommets in preventing silicone hinge implant fractures.
- To assess the protective effect of grommets against bone edge damage.
Main Methods:
- Silastic HP-100 flexible finger implants (size 5) were implanted in rabbit knees.
- One group received implants alone (n=10), the other received implants with titanium grommets (n=10).
- Monthly X-ray analysis was performed to monitor implant integrity over 16 months.
Main Results:
- Fracture rates were similar: 4 of 10 implants fractured in both the control and grommet groups.
- Fractures consistently occurred at the proximal stem-hinge junction, predominantly on the dorsal surface.
- Grommets delayed radiographic evidence of fracture onset (average 13 months vs. 9 months), but all implants fractured by 14 months.
Conclusions:
- Titanium grommets do not prevent silicone hinge implant wear or fracture in this rabbit model.
- The proposed protective mechanism of grommets against bone edge damage was not supported.
- Further research is needed to identify effective strategies for improving silicone implant longevity.