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Microscopic analysis of characteristic surface features of a set of retrieved total hip implants (922.13)
Author(s) -
Burbano Maria,
Roy Diana,
Russell Robert,
Huo Michael,
Rodrigues Danieli
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.28.1_supplement.922.13
Subject(s) - materials science , polyethylene , total hip arthroplasty , implant , scanning electron microscope , ceramic , total hip replacement , femoral head , biomedical engineering , composite material , medicine , surgery
Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) is considered one of the most successful orthopaedic interventions used for joint replacement. The purpose of this study was to characterize the particular surface features common to retrieved THA implants, in order to point out principal characteristics that lead to their failure. Methods: A set of fourteen retrieved implants was studied, their designs varying from metal‐on‐polyethylene (MoP), ceramic‐on‐polyethylene (CoP) and metal‐on‐metal (MoM). All specimens were analyzed using digital microscopy (Keyence VHX2000). Particularly corroded and scratched areas were further analyzed under Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM, JEOL 5600), and Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectrometer (EDS, JEOL 5600). Results: The surface analysis revealed certain patterns of features. The implants were divided in their components (cup, liner, head and stem), each of which was studied for common characteristics. Large amount of scratching was found throughout all of the heads and cups, followed by biological deposition on the surfaces, pitting and finally one single case of corrosion. Conclusion: The high level of scratching observed on the bearing surfaces of the implants leads to the belief that mechanical events induced failure of the implants. This study encourages surgeons to place higher importance of implant placement and material choice when applying THA. Grant Funding Source : Supported by the University of Texas at Dallas startup funds (Dr. Rodrigues)