History and systematic review of wear and osteolysis outcomes for first-generation highly crosslinked polyethylene

Outcome in design-specific comparisons between highly crosslinked and conventional polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty

Background and purpose - Most registry studies regarding highly crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) have focused on the overall revision risk. We compared the risk of cup and/or liner revision for specific cup and liner designs made of either XLPE or conventional polyethylene (CPE), regarding revision for any reason and revision due to aseptic loosening and/or osteolysis. Patients and methods - Using the Nordic Arthroplasty Register Association (NARA) database, we identified cup and liner designs where either XLPE or CPE had been used in more than 500 THAs performed for primary hip osteoarthritis. We assessed risk of revision for any reason and for aseptic loosening using Cox regression adjusted for age, sex, femoral head material and size, surgical approach, stem fixation, and presence of hydroxyapatite coating (uncemented cups). Results - The CPE version of the ZCA cup had a risk of revision for any reason similar to that of the XLPE version (p = 0.09), but showed a 6-fold higher risk of revision for aseptic loosening (p < 0.001). The CPE version of the Reflection All Poly cup had an 8-fold elevated risk of revision for any reason (p < 0.001) and a 5-fold increased risk of revision for aseptic loosening (p < 0.001). The Charnley Elite Ogee/Marathon cup and the Trilogy cup did not show such differences. Interpretation - Whether XLPE has any advantage over CPE regarding revision risk may depend on the properties of the polyethylene materials being compared, as well as the respective cup designs, fixation type, and follow-up times. Further research is needed to elucidate how cup design factors interact with polyethylene type to affect the risk of revision.

Vitamin E diffused highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty at five years: a randomised controlled trial using radiostereometric analysis

AIMS

The objective of this five-year prospective, blinded, randomised controlled trial (RCT) was to compare femoral head penetration into a vitamin E diffused highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) liner with penetration into a medium cross-linked polyethylene control liner using radiostereometric analysis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients scheduled for total hip arthroplasty (THA) were randomised to receive either the study E1 (32 patients) or the control ArComXL polyethylene (35 patients). The median age (range) of the overall cohort was 66 years (40 to 76).

RESULTS

The five-year median (interquartile range) proximal femoral head penetration into the E1 was -0.05 mm (-0.13 to -0.02) and 0.07 mm (-0.03 to 0.16) for ArComXL. At three and five years, the penetration was significantly greater in the ArComXL group compared with the E1 group (p = 0.029 and p = 0.019, respectively). All patient-reported outcomes (PROs) improved significantly from the pre-operative interval compared with those at one year, and remained favourable at five years. There were no differences between the two groups at any interval.

CONCLUSION

The five-year results showed that E1 polyethylene does not wear more than the control, ArComXL. This is the longest-term RCT comparing the wear performance and clinical outcome of vitamin E diffused HXLPE with a previous generation of medium cross-linked polyethylene. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:577-84.

Surface cross-linked ultra high molecular weight polyethylene by emulsified diffusion of dicumyl peroxide

Cross-linking improves the wear resistance of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) used in hip and knee implants. Free radicals, generated by ionizing radiation or chemically, react to form cross-links. Limiting cross-linking to the articulating surface of the implant is desirable to enable high wear resistance on the surface and higher strength and toughness in the bulk. We investigated the diffusion of emulsified dicumyl peroxide (DCP) into vitamin E-blended UHMWPE (0.1 and 0.3 wt. % vitamin-E) with subsequent thermal decomposition in situ to obtain surface cross-linking with the objective of achieving surface wear rate equivalent or lower than that of current clinically available materials. We diffused emulsified DCP at 100°C followed by in situ decomposition at 150°C. We also assessed the effect of having vitamin-E in the DCP emulsion. The oxidative stability of the treated samples increased with increasing vitamin E concentration in the blend and by incorporating vitamin E into the peroxide emulsion. The impact strength of a surface cross-linked, 0.3 wt% vitamin E blended UHMWPE prepared using this method was superior to a clinically available irradiated and melted highly cross-linked UHMWPE while the wear resistance was comparable. These results showed the feasibility of surface cross-linking using emulsified peroxide diffusion as a method of making tough and wear resistant joint implant bearing surfaces. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1517-1523, 2018.

Importance of preclinical evaluation of wear in hip implant designs using simulator machines

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a surgical procedure that involves the replacement of the damaged joint of the hip by an artificial device. Despite the recognized clinical success of hip implants, wear of the articulating surfaces remains as one of the critical issues influencing performance. Common material combinations used in hip designs comprise metal-on-polymer (MoP), ceramic-on-polymer (CoP), metal-on-metal (MoM), and ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC). However, when the design of the hip implant is concerned besides the materials used, several parameters can influence its wear performance. In this scenario, where the safety and efficacy for the patient are the main issues, it is fundamental to evaluate and predict the wear rate of the hip implant design before its use in THA. This is one of the issues that should be taken into account in the preclinical evaluation step of the product, in which simulated laboratory tests are necessary. However, it is fundamental that the applied motions and loads can reproduce the wear mechanisms physiologically observed in the patient. To replicate the in vivo angular displacements and loadings, special machines known as joint simulators are employed. This article focuses on the main characteristics related to the wear simulation of hip implants using mechanical simulators, giving information to surgeons, researchers, regulatory bodies, etc., about the importance of preclinical wear evaluation. A critical analysis is performed on the differences in the principles of operation of simulators and their effects on the final results, and about future trends in wear simulation.

Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene: Influence of the Chemical, Physical and Mechanical Properties on the Wear Behavior. A Review

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is the most common bearing material in total joint arthroplasty due to its unique combination of superior mechanical properties and wear resistance over other polymers. A great deal of research in recent decades has focused on further improving its performances, in order to provide durable implants in young and active patients. From "historical", gamma-air sterilized polyethylenes, to the so-called first and second generation of highly crosslinked materials, a variety of different formulations have progressively appeared in the market. This paper reviews the structure-properties relationship of these materials, with a particular emphasis on the in vitro and in vivo wear performances, through an analysis of the existing literature.

Thirteen-year wear rate comparison of highly crosslinked and conventional polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty: long-term follow-up of a prospective randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to report the radiographic wear rates from a previous randomized controlled trial of first-generation highly crosslinked versus conventional polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty (THA) at a minimum of 13 years' follow-up.

METHODS

Patients returned for radiographic imaging and radiostereometric analysis (RSA). Radiographs were reviewed for the presence of osteolysis or component loosening. Femoral head penetration (which includes both wear and creep) was measured using RSA. We compared Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) and Harris Hip Scores (HHS) with preoperative values.

RESULTS

There was 1 revision in each group. There was no difference in WOMAC, SF-12, or HHS outcome scores between the highly crosslinked and conventional polyethylene groups (all p ≥ 0.13). Wear rate was lower with crosslinked polyethylene than conventional polyethylene (0.04 ± 0.02 mm/year v. 0.08 ± 0.03 mm/year, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

First-generation crosslinked polyethylene demonstrates greater wear resistance than conventional polyethylene after 13 years of implantation. Crosslinked polyethylene continues to outperform conventional polyethylene into the second decade of implantation.

Effect of e-beam sterilization on the in vivo performance of conventional UHMWPE tibial plates for total knee arthroplasty

Although the introduction of highly cross-linked polyethylene is effective in reducing the amount of wear, there are still major concerns regarding the use of this material in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), essentially due to the reduction of fatigue resistance and toughness. Monitoring the in vivo performance of different types of UHMWPE is a much needed task to tackle the lack of information on which should be the most reliable choice for TKA. The present study was aimed at investigating the mid-term degradation of electron beam sterilized conventional UHMWPE tibial plates. Visual inspection enabled to grade the surface damage of 12 retrievals according to the Hood's score: the total wear damage correlates to the in vivo time (Spearman's ρ=0.681, p<0.05) and BMI (ρ=0.834, p<0.001). Surface degradation was less severe than that quantified in similar studies on γ-sterilized UHMWPE. Raman and infra-red spectroscopies were utilized to unfold the microstructural modifications. In the load zone, polyethylene whitened damage regions were noticed in the inserts implanted longer than 1year, in which oxidation index (OI) is clearly higher than 1 (max 8). The maximum OI (ρ=0.802, p<0.005) and α_c (ρ=0.816, p<0.005) correlate to the implantation time in the load zone. The crystallinity increased along with the extent of oxidation. Concentration of absorbed species from synovial fluid is higher in the contact zone and correlates to maximum OI (Spearman's ρ=0.699, p=0.011). Absorption was promoted in the contact area by the mechanical action of the femoral counterpart and it exacerbated the oxidative degradation in retrievals with high concentration of absorbed species. In the non-load zone, mild but detectable oxidation was observed, probably due to free radicals trapped after sterilization.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Although several clinical studies on retrieved tibial bearings have been published so far, monitoring and comparing the in vivo performance of different types of UHMWPE is still a much needed task. The present study reports for the first time results on the effect of sterilization by electron beam on the mid-term in vivo performance of conventional UHMWPE tibial plates. In the present investigation, visual inspection of wear damage based on the Hood's scoring method, Raman micro-spectroscopy and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy were utilized to unveil the damage, the microstructural modifications and the oxidation occurred during implantation. The findings of this investigation have been discussed and compared to previous clinical studies on γ-air sterilized, γ-inert sterilized tibial bearings.

Comparison of wear rate and osteolysis between second-generation annealed and first-generation remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty. A case control study at a minimum of five years

BACKGROUND

There is no previous report that directly compared wear resistance of second-generation annealed highly cross-linked polyethylene with that of first-generation remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene. We therefore performed a retrospective study at a minimum of 5-year follow-up comparing second-generation annealed and first-generation remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene in order to: (1) assess wear rates and (2) compare the incidence of osteolysis between, (3) identify the frequency of complication related to the two types of highly cross-linked polyethylene.

HYPOTHESIS

There is a difference in the linear wear rate and the incidence of osteolysis between the two types of highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a single centre study, we reviewed 123 primary cementless total hip arthroplasties between 2010 and 2011 that were performed with 32mm alumina ceramic on second-generation annealed (X3) or first-generation remelted (Longevity) highly cross-linked polyethylene liner. There was no specific reason for the choice of the type of highly cross-linked polyethylene. There were no significant differences between the two groups in respect of gender, diagnosis, body mass index, pre- and post-operative functional and activity score, cup size, and cup orientation except the younger age in the X3 group. The mean wear rate and the incidence of osteolysis were evaluated at the latest follow-up.

RESULTS

One hundred nine cases followed over 5 years post-operatively (88.6% in all consecutive cases) were evaluated. X3 and Longevity were used in 54 and 55 cases, respectively. The mean follow-up was 5.3 years in both groups. The mean linear wear rate of X3 and Longevity group was 0.045±0.023mm/year and 0.076±0.031mm/year, respectively (P<0.001). No osteolysis was found on plain X-rays in both groups and no specific complication was related to these highly cross-linked components.

DISCUSSION

Excellent wear resistance of both types of highly cross-linked polyethylene liner was revealed in our study. The difference of wear rate between two materials should be monitored in a longer follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III retrospective case control study.

Raman spectroscopy of biomedical polyethylenes

With the development of three-dimensional Raman algorithms for local mapping of oxidation and plastic strain, and the ability to resolve molecular orientation patterns with microscopic spatial resolution, there is an opportunity to re-examine many of the foundations on which our understanding of biomedical grade ultra-high molecular weight polyethylenes (UHMWPEs) are based. By implementing polarized Raman spectroscopy into an automatized tool with an improved precision in non-destructively resolving Euler angles, oxidation levels, and microscopic strain, we become capable to make accurate and traceable measurements of the in vitro and in vivo tribological responses of a variety of commercially available UHMWPE bearings for artificial hip and knee joints. In this paper, we first review the foundations and the main algorithms for Raman analyses of oxidation and strain of biomedical polyethylene. Then, we critically re-examine a large body of Raman data previously collected on different polyethylene joint components after in vitro testing or in vivo service, in order to shed new light on an area of particular importance to joint orthopedics: the microscopic nature of UHMWPE surface degradation in the human body. A complex scenario of physical chemistry appears from the Raman analyses, which highlights the importance of molecular-scale phenomena besides mere microstructural changes. The availability of the Raman microscopic probe for visualizing oxidation patterns unveiled striking findings related to the chemical contribution to wear degradation: chain-breaking and subsequent formation of carboxylic acid sites preferentially occur in correspondence of third-phase regions, and they are triggered by emission of dehydroxylated oxygen from ceramic oxide counterparts. These findings profoundly differ from more popular (and simplistic) notions of mechanistic tribology adopted in analyzing joint simulator data. Statement of Significance This review was dedicated to the theoretical and experimental evaluation of the commercially available biomedical polyethylene samples by Raman spectroscopy with regard to their molecular textures, oxidative patterns, and plastic strain at the microscopic level in the three dimensions of the Euclidean space. The main achievements could be listed, as follow: (i) visualization of molecular patterns at the surface of UHMWPE bearings operating against metallic components; (ii) differentiation between wear and creep deformation in retrievals; (iii) non-destructive mapping of oxidative patterns; and, (iv) the clarification of chemical interactions between oxide/non-oxide ceramic heads and advanced UHMWPE liners.

High temperature homogenization improves impact toughness of vitamin E-diffused, irradiated UHMWPE

Diffusion of vitamin E into radiation cross-linked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is used to increase stability against oxidation of total joint implant components. The dispersion of vitamin E throughout implant preforms has been optimized by a two-step process of doping and homogenization. Both of these steps are performed below the peak melting point of the cross-linked polymer (<140°C) to avoid loss of crystallinity and strength. Recently, it was discovered that the exposure of UHMWPE to elevated temperatures, around 300°C, for a limited amount of time in nitrogen, could improve the toughness without sacrificing wear resistance. We hypothesized that high temperature homogenization of antioxidant-doped, radiation cross-linked UHMWPE could improve its toughness. We found that homogenization at 300°C for 8 h resulted in an increase in the impact toughness (74 kJ/m² compared to 67 kJ/m² ), the ultimate tensile strength (50 MPa compared to 43 MPa) and elongation at break (271% compared to 236%). The high temperature treatment did not compromise the wear resistance or the oxidative stability as measured by oxidation induction time. In addition, the desired homogeneity was achieved at a much shorter duration (8 h compared to >240 h) by using high temperature homogenization. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:1343-1347, 2017.

In vitro wear of ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene and vitamin E blended highly cross-linked polyethylene in linked, semiconstrained total elbow replacement prostheses

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to develop a clinically relevant in vitro elbow wear test and to compare the polyethylene wear of 2 total elbow replacement prostheses, one that uses conventional gamma-irradiated polyethylene (CPE) and one that uses vitamin E blended and cross-linked polyethylene (VE-HXPE) bushings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The test protocol applied 0° to 85° flexion-extension motions and imposed a constant 4.5° varus malalignment of the ulnar relative to the humeral implant under a variable joint load profile at a frequency of 1 Hz. The implants were tested for 3 million cycles (Mc) in a bovine serum lubricant at 37°C ± 3°C. Polyethylene wear was determined gravimetrically. Wear particles were isolated and characterized.

RESULTS

Clinically relevant polyethylene bushings wear mechanisms were observed. After 3 Mc, the mean CPE wear rate was 9.3 ± 2.8 mm³/Mc, significantly lower than that reported for hip and knee implants but comparable to that of ankle (7.4 ± 1.3 mm³/Mc) devices. The mean VE-HXPE wear rate was 0.8 ± 0.2 mm³/Mc, comparable to that of hip and knees devices. The mean equivalent circle diameter and aspect ratio were 0.17 ± 0.01 µm and 1.99 ± 0.18 for the CPE and 0.15 ± 0.02 µm and 1.81 ± 0.16 for the VE-HXPE particles.

CONCLUSION

The test replicated clinically observed failure modes for CPE devices. The use of VE-HXPE led to an order of magnitude reduction in polyethylene wear. Further clinical evaluation is necessary to determine if this translates into reduced complications of total elbow replacement associated with wear.

Is There a Difference in Revision Risk Between Metal and Ceramic Heads on Highly Crosslinked Polyethylene Liners?

BACKGROUND

The most common bearing surface used among primary THAs worldwide is a metal or ceramic femoral head that articulates against a highly crosslinked ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (HXLPE) acetabular liner. Despite their widespread use, relatively little is known about the comparative effectiveness of ceramic versus metal femoral heads with respect to risk of revision and dislocation as well as the role of head size in this relationship.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of (1) all-cause revision in metal versus ceramic femoral heads when used with an HXLPE liner, including an evaluation of the effect of head size; and (2) dislocation in metal versus ceramic femoral heads when used with an HXLPE liner as well as an assessment of the effect of head size.

METHODS

Data were collected as part of the Kaiser Permanente Total Joint Replacement Registry between 2001 and 2013. Patients in this study were on average overweight (body mass index = 29 kg/m²), 67 years old, mostly female (57%), and had osteoarthritis (93%) as the primary indication for surgery. The material of the femoral head (metal, ceramic) was crossed with head size (< 32, 32, 36, > 36 mm), yielding eight device groupings. Only uncemented devices were evaluated. The primary outcome was all-cause revision (n = 28,772) and the secondary outcome was dislocation within 1 year (n = 19,623). Propensity scores were used to adjust for potential confounding at the implant/patient level using between-within semiparametric survival models that control for surgeon and hospital confounding and adjust estimates for the within-cluster correlation among observations on the response.

RESULTS

For all-cause revision, there was no difference between ceramic versus metal (reference) heads in combination with an HXLPE liner (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.82 [0.65-1.04], p = 0.099). Smaller metal head sizes of < 32 mm were associated with increased risk of revision relative to 36 mm (HR = 1.66 [1.20-2.31], p = 0.002, adjusted p = 0.025). For dislocation, ceramic heads increased risk relative to metal at < 32 mm only (HR = 4.39 [1.72-11.19], p = 0.002, adjusted p = 0.020). Head sizes < 32 mm were associated with increased risk of dislocation relative to 36 mm for metal (HR = 2.99 [1.40-6.39], p = 0.005, adjusted p = 0.047) and ceramic heads (HR = 15.69 [6.07-40.55], p < 0.001, adjusted p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results did not provide evidence for use of one femoral head material over another when used with HXLPE liners for the outcome of revision, but for dislocation, metal performed better than ceramic with < 32-mm heads. Overall, the findings suggest increased risk of revision/dislocation with head sizes < 32 mm.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Study on critical-sized ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene wear particles loaded with alendronate sodium: in vitro release and cell response

The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro release and the effect of RAW 264.7 macrophages of critical-sized wear particles of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) loaded with alendronate sodium (ALN), one of the most effective drugs to treat osteoporosis in clinic. The critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN 0.5 wt.% wear particles were prepared by vacuum gradient filtration combined with Pluronic F-68. In vitro release of ALN from critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN wear particles was investigated in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) at 37 °C with a shaker. Cell morphology, proliferation, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and secretions of cytokines were evaluated after co-cultured with critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN wear particles in vitro. Results showed that ALN released from critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN wear particles included burst release and slow release in vitro. Macrophages would be chemotaxis and aggregated around the critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN or UHMWPE wear particle, which was phagocytosed with time. The proliferation of macrophages co-cultured with critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN wear particles was significantly decreased compared with that of critical-sized UHMWPE group. Meanwhile, the critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN wear particles significantly induced the LDH leakage of macrophages, which indicated the cell death. The death of macrophages induced by ALN was one of pathways to inhibit their proliferation. The secretions of cytokines (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) in critical-sized UHMWPE-ALN group were significantly lower than those in critical-sized UHMWPE group due to the released ALN. The present results suggested that UHMWPE-ALN had the potential application in clinic to treat osteolysis induced by wear particles.

The Relationship Between Polyethylene Wear and Periprosthetic Osteolysis in Total Hip Arthroplasty at 12 Years in a Randomized Controlled Trial Cohort

BACKGROUND

Polyethylene acetabular components are common in hip arthroplasty. Highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) has lower wear than ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Evidence suggests that wear particles induce inflammation causing periprosthetic osteolysis contributing to implant loosening with wear rates of 0.05 mm/y were considered safe. We aimed to compare incidence and volume of periacetabular osteolysis between HXLPE and UHMWPE using computed tomography.

METHODS

Initially, 54 hips in 53 patients were randomized to HXLPE or UHMWPE acetabular liner. At 10 years, 39 hips in 38 patients remained for the radiostereometric analysis' demonstrating significantly lower wear in the HXLPE group. At 12 years, 14 hips in 13 patients were lost to follow-up leaving 25 hips for computed tomography assessment. Images were reconstructed to detect osteolysis and where identified, areas were segmented and volumized.

RESULTS

Osteolysis was observed in 8 patients, 7 from the UHMWPE group and only 1 from the HXLPE group (Fisher exact, P = .042). There was no correlation between the amount of polyethylene wear and osteolysis volume; however, the radiostereometric analysis-measured wear rate in patients with osteolysis from both groups was significantly higher than overall average wear rate.

CONCLUSION

This data demonstrates lower incidence of periacetabular osteolysis in the HXLPE group of a small cohort. Although numbers are too low to estimate causation, in the context of lower wear in the HXLPE group, this finding supports the hypothesis that HXLPE may not elevate osteolysis risk, and hence does not suggest that HXLPE wear particles are more biologically active than those generated by earlier generations of polyethylene.

Tribology of total hip arthroplasty prostheses: What an orthopaedic surgeon should know

Articulating components should minimise the generation of wear particles in order to optimize long-term survival of the prosthesis.

A good understanding of tribological properties helps the orthopaedic surgeon to choose the most suitable bearing for each individual patient.

Conventional and highly cross-linked polyethylene articulating either with metal or ceramic, ceramic-on-ceramic and metal-on-metal are the most commonly used bearing combinations.

All combinations of bearing surface have their advantages and disadvantages. An appraisal of the individual patient’s objectives should be part of the assessment of the best bearing surface.

Cite this article: Rieker CB. Tribology of total hip arthroplasty prostheses: what an orthopaedic surgeon should know. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:52-57. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000004.

Outcomes of Ceramic Bearings After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Medicare Population

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to analyze the outcomes of ceramic bearings used in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the Medicare population.

METHODS

A total of 315,784 elderly Medicare patients (65+) who underwent primary THA between 2005 and 2014 were identified from the United States Medicare 100% national administrative hospital claims database. Outcomes of interest included infection, dislocation, revision, or mortality at any time point after primary surgery. Propensity scores were developed to adjust for selection bias in the choice of bearing type at index primary surgery.

RESULTS

For primary THA patients treated with ceramic-on-polyethylene (C-PE) bearings and ceramic-on-ceramic (COC) bearings, there was significantly reduced risk of infection relative to metal-on-polyethylene (M-PE) bearings (C-PE hazard ratio [HR]: 0.86, P = .001; COC HR: 0.74, P = .01). For the C-PE cohort, we also observed reduced risk of dislocation (HR: 0.81, P < .001) and mortality (HR: 0.92, P < .001). There was no significant difference in risk of revision for either the C-PE or COC bearing cohorts when compared with M-PE. For the COC cohort, there was no significant difference in dislocation or mortality risk.

CONCLUSION

As in previous studies, we found that ceramic bearings have similar overall revision risk as M-PE bearings in primary THA at 8-9 years of follow-up. The results indicate that, after adjusting for selection bias and various confounding patient-, surgeon-, and hospital-related factors, Medicare primary THA patients treated with ceramic bearings exhibit lower risk of infection than those treated with M-PE bearings. In addition, C-PE bearings were associated with lower risk of dislocation and mortality.

Highly Cross-linked Polyethylene Liner Dissociation from a Cement-less Modular Acetabular Shell: Two Case Reports

Liner dissociation of polyethylene from a cementless acetabular socket following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a rare complication. Cross-linked polyethylene liner dissociation from AMS-HA shell (KYOCERA Med, Osaka, Japan) occurred in 2 out of the 4153 (0.04%) cases approximately 10 years after undergoing surgery at our institute. First case was an 80-year-old female who underwent right THA along with subtrochanteric femoral shortening osteotomy due to complete dislocation hip, and second case was a 72-year-old male, who underwent right THA due to coxarthrosis. A 26 mm femoral head and CPE liner were used in both cases and the inclination degree of the acetabular socket was within 50°.There was no implant loosening in both cases. There was partial damage in the elevated rim on the alternative side and scratches on the back side in the both extracted CPE liner. It was surmised that liner dissociation was caused due to a problem in the liner fixing format of the push in type of the present model.

Clinical outcomes of ceramicized ball heads in total hip replacement bearings: a literature review

BACKGROUND

Metallic ball heads for total hip replacement (THR) bearings with ceramicized surfaces were introduced in orthopedics during the second half of the 1980s, with the aim of decreasing the wear of polyethylene cups.

METHODS

An analysis was made of the literature regarding outcomes for metallic ball heads with ceramicized surfaces now in clinical use (TiN, TiNbN, ZrN, monoclinic ZrO2), as well as carbon coatings (pyrolytic carbon, diamond-like carbon) and silicon nitride as coatings in ball heads for THR bearings.

RESULTS

Notwithstanding the diffusion of ceramicized ball heads in THRs, there are few reports about their clinical outcomes in hip arthroplasty. In addition, several clinical studies and some registry data are putting under scrutiny the clinical advantages of ceramicized ball heads over cobalt chrome (CoCr) alloy and ceramic ball heads.

CONCLUSIONS

The wear of THR bearings with ceramicized ball heads looks like it depends more on the behavior of the polyethylene cups than on the treatment of the ball head surface. The risk of coating damage and of its consequences has to be taken into account in selecting this type of bearing.

Vitamin E stabilised polyethylene for total knee arthroplasty evaluated under highly demanding activities wear simulation

As total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients are getting more active, heavier and younger and structural material fatigue and delamination of tibial inserts becomes more likely in the second decade of good clinical performance it appears desirable to establish advanced pre-clinical test methods better characterizing the longterm clinical material behaviour. The questions of our study were 1) Is it possible to induce subsurface delamination and striated pattern wear on standard polyethylene TKA gliding surfaces? 2) Can we distinguish between γ-inert standard polyethylene (PEstand.30kGy) as clinical reference and vitamin E stabilised materials (PEVit.E30kGy & PEVit.E50kGy)? 3) Is there an influence of the irradiation dose (30vs 50kGy) on oxidation and wear behaviour? Clinical relevant artificial ageing (ASTM F2003; 2weeks) of polyethylene CR fixed TKA inserts and oxidation index measurements were performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy prior testing. The oxidation index was calculated in accordance with ISO 5834-4:2005 from the area ratio of the carbonyl peak (between 1650 and 1850cm^-1) to the reference peak for polyethylene (1370cm^-1). Highly demanding patient activities (HDA) measured in vivo were applied for 5million knee wear cycles in a combination of 40% stairs up, 40% stairs down, 10% level walking, 8% chair raising and 2% deep squatting with up to 100° flexion. After 3.0mc all standard polyethylene gliding surfaces developed noticeable areas of progressive delamination. Cumulative gravimetric wear was 355.9mg for PEstand.30kGy, 28.7mg for PEVit.E30kGy and 26.5mg for PEVit.E50kGy in HDA knee wear simulation. Wear rates were 12.4mg/mc for PEstand.30kGy in the linear portion (0-2mc), 5.6mg/mc for PEVit.E30kGy and 5.3mg/mc for PEVit.E50kGy. In conclusion, artificial ageing of standard polyethylene to an oxidation index of 0.7-0.95 in combination with HDA knee wear simulation, is able to create subsurface delamination, structural material fatigue in vitro, whereas for the vitamin-E-blended materials no evidence of progressive wear, fatigue or delamination was found.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

As total knee arthroplasty patients are getting more active, heavier and younger and structural material fatigue and delamination of polyethylene tibial inserts becomes more likely in the second decade of good clinical performance, it appears desirable to establish advanced pre-clinical test methods better characterizing the longterm clinical material behaviour. Various studies reported in literature attempted to artificially create delamination during in vitro knee wear simulation. We combined artificial ageing to clinically observed oxidation of gamma inert and vitamin E stabilised polyethylene inserts and highly demanding patient activities knee wear simulation based on in vivo load data. With this new method we were able to create clinically relevant subsurface delamination and structural material fatigue on standard polyethylene inserts in vitro.

Crosslink Density Is Reduced and Oxidation Is Increased in Retrieved Highly Crosslinked Polyethylene TKA Tibial Inserts

BACKGROUND

The wear resistance of highly crosslinked polyethylene depends on crosslink density, which may decrease with in vivo loading, leading to more wear and increased oxidation. The relationship among large and complex in vivo mechanical stresses, breakdown of the polyethylene crosslinks, and oxidative degradation is not fully understood in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We wished to determine whether crosslink density is reduced at the articular surfaces of retrieved tibial inserts in contact areas exposed to in vivo mechanical stress.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) Does polyethylene crosslink density decrease preferentially in regions of the articular surface of thermally stabilized crosslinked polyethylene tibial components exposed to mechanical stress in vivo; and (2) what is the ramification of decreased crosslink density in TKA in terms of accompanying oxidation of the polyethylene?

METHODS

From May 2011 to January 2014, 90 crosslinked polyethylene tibial components were retrieved during revision surgery as a part of a long-standing implant retrieval program. Forty highly crosslinked polyethylene tibial inserts (27 posterior-stabilized designs and 13 cruciate-retaining designs) retrieved for instability (15 cases), stiffness (11), infection (six), aseptic loosening (four), pain (two), and malposition (two) after a mean time of 18 months were inspected microscopically to identify loaded (burnished) and unloaded (unburnished) regions on the articular surfaces. Swell ratio testing was done according to ASTM F2214 to calculate crosslink density and infrared spectroscopy was used according to ASTM F2102 to measure oxidation.

RESULTS

The region of the tibial insert influenced crosslink density. Loaded surface regions had a mean crosslink density of 0.19 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.18-0.19) mol/dm³, lower than the other three regions (loaded subsurface, unloaded surface, and unloaded subsurface), which had crosslink densities of 0.21 (95% CI, 0.21-0.22; p < 0.01) mol/dm³. Peak oxidation levels were higher in loaded regions with a mean oxidation index (OI) of 0.67 (95% CI, 0.56-0.78) versus unloaded regions with a mean OI of 0.36 (95% CI, 0.27-0.45; p < 0.01). Peak oxidation levels were higher in annealed samples with a mean OI of 0.66 (95% CI, 0.52-0.81) versus remelted samples with a mean OI of 0.40 (95% CI, 0.34-0.47; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that the crosslink density decreases and accompanying oxidation is driven predominantly by contact stress conditions. If crosslink density continues to decrease with continued loading over time, crosslinked polyethylene may not provide a clinical advantage over conventional polyethylene in the long term for TKA. Therefore, we will continue to collect longer term retrievals to evaluate mechanical property changes in crosslinked polyethylenes.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Although we found a decrease in crosslink density and increase in oxidation in the tibial inserts, the degree of oxidation does not suggest, for now, a reason for concern in these early retrievals. The OI values of the tibial inserts in this study were lower than the critical oxidation level (OI > 3) reported in the literature where polyethylene may lose mechanical properties and have the compromised ability to withstand mechanical loading.

Minimum 10-year results of cementless total hip arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES

To retrospectively evaluate the long-term results of cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and postoperative patient mortality after THA.

METHODS

This study included 191 hips in 149 RA patients who underwent cementless THA between 1998 and 2005. Mean age at surgery was 54.2 years, and mean follow-up was 12.6 years. Implant and patient survivorships were determined using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the associated influencing factors were determined.

RESULTS

Implant survivals at 17 years were 99.5% for stems, 93.9% for cups, and 90.8% for liners. Among the liners used, THAs with highly cross-linked polyethylene showed better survivals compared with those with conventional polyethylene and alumina-bearing surface (93.4%, 90.9%, and 52.2%, respectively). A total of 64 deaths occurred; 45 patients died within 10 years and 19 patients died between 10 and 17 years. Malignancy (25.0%) was the leading cause of death, followed by pneumonia (20.8%) and sepsis (20.8%). The patient survival rate was 36.9% at 17 years after THA. Multivariate analysis exhibited that older age at operation and greater dose of concomitant corticosteroid resulted in shorter patient survivals.

CONCLUSIONS

Cementless THA worked well in patients with RA. Mortality remained high among RA patients who needed THA.

Long-term Results of a First-Generation Annealed Highly Cross-Linked Polyethylene in Young, Active Patients

The survivorship of total hip arthroplasty in younger patients is dependent on the wear characteristics of the bearing surfaces. Long-term results with conventional polyethylene in young patients show a high failure rate. This study assessed the long-term results of a first-generation annealed highly cross-linked polyethylene (HCLPE) in uncemented total hip arthroplasty in young, active patients. Between 1999 and 2003, 112 total hip arthroplasty procedures performed in 91 patients with an average University of California Los Angeles activity score of 8 and mean age of 53 years (range, 24-65 years) were included from a prospective database. In all patients, a 28-mm metal femoral head on annealed HCLPE (Crossfire; Stryker, Mahwah, New Jersey) was used. At minimum 10-year follow-up (11.5±0.94 years), Kaplan-Meier survivorship was 97% for all failures (1 periprosthetic infection and 1 late dislocation) and 100% for mechanical failure (no revisions for osteolysis or loosening). This study showed low revision rates for wear-related failure and superior survivorship in young, active patients. Oxidation causing failure of the locking mechanism has not been a problem with Crossfire for up to 10 years.

Wear Analysis of Second-generation Highly Cross-Linked Polyethylene in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

A major limiting factor in the longevity of total hip replacement is the wear rate of the hip bearing. As manufacturing technology has improved during the past several decades, much attention has been focused on developing newer generations of polyethylene that have lower rates of wear while minimizing free radical formation and subsequent osteolysis. The turning point for the manufacture of polyethylene was moving from gamma irradiation in air to irradiation in a low oxygen environment, which reduced free radical formation while increasing the wear resistance. New polyethylene manufacturing methods, including multiple cycles of irradiation and annealing, have resulted in greater wear resistance. Wear analysis studies are essential to determine if these new liners actually show a benefit from prior generations of polyethylene and, more importantly, if they are safe to use. This study involved a single center retrospective review of 60 patients with a mean follow-up of 5.5 years who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty with a second-generation highly cross-linked polyethylene manufactured by 3 cycles of sequential irradiation and annealing. Linear and volumetric wear rates were determined from digitized radiographs using contemporary wear analysis software. The mean linear wear rate for the entire group was 0.025 millimeters per year (mm/y). This value represents a linear wear rate 2.7 times less than that of a first-generation highly cross-linked polyethylene and 4.2 times less than that of a conventional polyethylene. At an average of 5 years, compared with a first-generation highly cross-linked polyethylene, a second-generation highly cross-linked polyethylene appears to show significant improvement regarding wear. [Orthopedics. 2016; 39(6):e1178-e1182.].

Blockade of NF-κB and MAPK pathways by ulinastatin attenuates wear particle-stimulated osteoclast differentiation in vitro and in vivo

Ulinastatin, a urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI), is widely used to clinically treat lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-related inflammatory disorders recently. Adherent pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), of which LPS is the best-studied and classical endotoxin produced by Gram-negative bacteria, act to increase the biological activity of osteopedic wear particles such as polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) and titanium particles in cell culture and animal models of implant loosening. The present study was designed to explore the inhibitory effect of UTI on osteoclastogenesis and inflammatory osteolysis in LPS/PMMA-mediated Raw264.7 cells and murine osteolysis models, and investigate the potential mechanism. The in vitro study was divided into the control group, LPS-induced group, PMMA-stimulated group and UTI-pretreated group. UTI (500 or 5000 units/ml) pretreatment was followed by PMMA (0.5 mg/ml) with adherent LPS. The levels of inflammatory mediators including tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), matrixmetallo-proteinases-9 (MMP-9) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), receptor activation of nuclear factor NF-κB (RANK), and cathepsin K were examined and the amounts of phosphorylated I-κB, MEK, JNK and p38 were measured. In vivo study, murine osteolysis models were divided into the control group, PMMA-induced group and UTI-treated group. UTI (500 or 5000 units/kg per day) was injected intraperitoneally followed by PMMA suspension with adherent LPS (2×10⁸ particles/25 μl) in the UTI-treated group. The thickness of interfacial membrane and the number of infiltrated inflammatory cells around the implants were assessed, and bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular number (Tb.N.), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th.), trabecular separation (Tb.Sp.), relative bone volume over total volume (BV/TV) of distal femur around the implants were calculated. Our results showed that UTI pretreatment suppressed the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines including MMP-9, IL-6, TNF-α, RANK and cathepsin K through down-regulating the activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and MAPKs partly in LPS/PMMA-mediated Raw264.7 cells. Finally, UTI treatment decreased the inflammatory osteolysis reaction in PMMA-induced murine osteolysis models. In conclusion, these results confirm the anti-inflammatory potential of UTI in the prevention of particle disease.

The result of transmuscular versus transosseous repair of the posterior capsule on early dislocations in primary hip arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Dislocation is a concerning complication of the posterolateral approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA). Use of a larger size femoral head and a correct repair of the posterior structures can reduce the risk on dislocation of the hip prosthesis. In this study we investigated if there was a difference in dislocation rate between transmuscular and transosseous repair of the posterior soft tissues with use of 36 mm heads.

METHODS

A power analysis showed that with a standardised effect size of 0.3 and p-value of 0.05, each group should include at least 174 patients. A total of 465 consecutive primary THAs with a posterolateral approach were performed in patients with primary osteoarthritis by 3 orthopaedic surgeons. There were 246 patients operated using transmuscular repair, the other 219 by using transosseous repair. All patients were given the same prostheses.

RESULTS

Dislocation rate was 1.7% in all patients with at least 1 year follow-up. No significant difference was found in dislocation between both reconstruction techniques. Clinical outcome scores were comparable between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Transosseous and transmuscular repair were equally effective techniques in closing the posterior soft tissues after THA through the posterolateral approach, without difference in dislocation rate or complication rate.

Equal channel angular extrusion of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), a common bearing surface in total joint arthroplasty, is subject to material property tradeoffs associated with conventional processing techniques. For orthopaedic applications, radiation-induced cross-linking is used to enhance the wear resistance of the material, but cross-linking also restricts relative chain movement in the amorphous regions and hence decreases toughness. Equal Channel Angular Extrusion (ECAE) is proposed as a novel mechanism by which entanglements can be introduced to the polymer bulk during consolidation, with the aim of imparting the same tribological benefits of conventional processing without complete inhibition of chain motion. ECAE processing at temperatures near the crystalline melt for UHMWPE produces (1) increased entanglements compared to control materials; (2) increasing entanglements with increasing temperature; and (3) mechanical properties between values for untreated polyethylene and for cross-linked polyethylene. These results support additional research in ECAE-processed UHMWPE for joint arthroplasty applications.

Hip Resurfacing Using Highly Cross-linked Polyethylene: Prospective Study Results at 8.5 Years

BACKGROUND

Hip resurfacing is an option to consider when treating younger, more active patients. Advantages over total hip arthroplasty include a more normal gait and a lower incidence of thigh pain.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 190 hip resurfacing procedures (164 participants) were performed using a cobalt-chromium femoral component and a cementless acetabular cup with a 3.8-mm highly cross-linked polyethylene acetabular liner.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 8.5 (range, 7-10) years. Two participants were lost to follow-up and 2 died. One participant underwent successful revision surgery for acetabular loosening. Four participants underwent successful revision to a total hip arthroplasty because of femoral neck fracture (2), femoral loosening, or infection. The Kaplan-Meier survivorship was 97%. Acetabular bone conservation was assessed using computed tomography by measuring the medial acetabular wall. The mean thickness was 9 mm. Femoral bone was well preserved with a mean head:neck ratio of 1.37. There were 4 (2%) osteolytic defects up to 0.9 cm(3) on computed tomography and no instances of impending polyethylene wear-through. Seven polyethylene retrievals had a measured wear rate of 0.05 mm/y.

CONCLUSION

Hip resurfacing using a highly cross-linked polyethylene acetabular component is a reliable procedure. Both femoral and acetabular bones are reasonably preserved compared with prior resurfacing methods. The low incidence of osteolysis and the low rate of wear found on retrievals suggest that many years of use in highly active patients is possible.

Comparison of wear rate and osteolysis between annealed and remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty. A case control study at 7 to 10 years follow-up

BACKGROUND

Low polyethylene wear rate and low incidence of osteolysis after total hip arthroplasty using annealed and remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene have been reported. However, there is no previous report that directly compared both types of highly cross-linked polyethylene. We therefore performed a retrospective study on a series of highly cross-linked polyethylene, in order to: (1) compare wear rates and the incidence of osteolysis between annealed and remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene at 7-10 years; (2) identify the frequency of complication related to annealed and remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene.

HYPOTHESIS

There is no difference in the linear wear rate and the incidence of osteolysis between the annealed and remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two hundred and sixteen cases of cementless total hip arthroplasties with annealed or remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene, which were performed between January 2003 and December 2006 in one institution, were followed for 7-10 years and received computed tomography scan, in addition to radiography at the latest follow-up. Annealed and remelted highly cross-linked polyethylene was used in 91 cases and 125 cases, respectively. A 26-mm cobalt-chromium head was used in all cases. Penetration rates from 1 year to the last evaluation were used to estimate the yearly linear wear rate. Existence of osteolysis was evaluated by plain radiography and computed tomography.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in patients' background between the two groups. The linear wear rate of annealed and remelted group was 0.031±0.022mm/year and 0.032±0.020mm/year, respectively (P=0.91). Two cases of small femoral osteolysis were found in the annealed group. Any complication related to highly cross-linked polyethylene was not found in both groups.

DISCUSSION

There was no significant difference in the linear wear rate and the incidence of osteolysis between the annealed and remelted group at postoperative 7 to 10 years. Excellent results of both types of highly cross-linked polyethylene were revealed by this study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III retrospective case control study.

Primary total hip arthroplasty using 3rd generation ceramic-on-ceramic articulation

PURPOSE

Ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) is currently a popular bearing combination in young patients in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic results and complications of cementless THA with 3rd generation CoC articulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From April 2001 to January 2008, 310 primary THAs were performed in 300 patients using 3rd generation CoC articulation. The mean follow-up period was 8.9 years and the mean age at index surgery was 54.6 years. Patient clinical outcome was evaluated with the Harris Hip Score. Radiographic evaluations was performed to analyse osteolysis, implant fixation and loosening.

RESULTS

Mean Harris Hip Score at last follow-up was 95.4 (76-100). Radiographic analysis demonstrated no evidence of stem or cup loosening and there were no cases of osteolysis. Ceramic wear was not detectable on the plain radiograph. Complications requiring revision occurred in 12 cases; 2 ceramic head fractures, 4 dislocations, 2 deep infections and 4 cases of periprosthetic fracture. The cohort had an overall revision rate of 3.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical outcomes using cementless THA with 3rd generation CoC articulation were satisfactory. Although the mechanical properties of ceramic materials have improved, there are still problems such as ceramic fracture and squeaking. More clinical study and investigation for alternative bearing are necessary to reduce complications. 4th generation CoC or ceramic on cross linked polyethylene may address some of these issues.

Backside Wear Analysis of Retrieved Acetabular Liners with a Press-Fit Locking Mechanism in Comparison to Wear Simulation In Vitro

Backside wear due to micromotion and poor conformity between the liner and its titanium alloy shell may contribute to the high rates of retroacetabular osteolysis and consequent aseptic loosening. The purpose of our study was to understand the wear process on the backside of polyethylene liners from two acetabular cup systems, whose locking mechanism is based on a press-fit cone in combination with a rough titanium conical inner surface on the fixation area. A direct comparison between in vitro wear simulator tests (equivalent to 3 years of use) and retrieved liners (average 13.1 months in situ) was done in order to evaluate the backside wear characteristics and behavior of these systems. Similar wear scores between in vitro tested and retrieved liners were observed. The results showed that this locking mechanism did not significantly produce wear marks at the backside of the polyethylene liners due to micromotion. In all the analyzed liners, the most common wear modes observed were small scratches at the cranial fixation zone directly below the rough titanium inner surface of the shell. It was concluded that most of the wear marks were produced during the insertion and removal of the liner, rather than during its time in situ.

Thirteen-Year Evaluation of Highly Cross-Linked Polyethylene Articulating With Either 28-mm or 36-mm Femoral Heads Using Radiostereometric Analysis and Computerized Tomography

BACKGROUND

The objective of this 13-year prospective evaluation of highly cross-linked ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (HXLPE) was to (1) assess the long-term wear of HXLPE articulating with 2 femoral head sizes using radiostereometric analysis (RSA) and to (2) determine if osteolysis is a concern with this material through the use of plain radiographs and computerized tomography (CT).

METHODS

All patients received a Longevity HXLPE liner with tantalum beads and either a 28-mm or 36-mm femoral head. Twelve patients (6 in each head size group) agreed to return for 13-year RSA, plain radiograph, and CT follow-up. The 1-year and 13-year plain radiographs as well as the CT scans were analyzed for the presence of osteolysis.

RESULTS

The 13-year mean ± standard error steady-state wear was 0.05 ± 0.02 mm with no significant increase over time or between the 2 head size groups. Two patients' CT scans showed radiolucent regions in the acetabulum of 4.51 cm(3) and 11.25 cm(3), respectively. In one patient, this area corresponded to a partially healed degenerative cyst treated with autograft during surgery. The second patient had an acetabular protrusio treated with autograft, and the CT scan revealed areas of remodeling of this graft. One patient's 13-year plain radiographs showed evidence of cup loosening and linear radiolucencies in zones 2 and 3.

CONCLUSION

There was no evidence of significant wear over time using RSA. The CT scans did not show evidence of osteolysis due to wear particles. These results suggest that this material has reduced wear compared to conventional polyethylene, irrespective of head size.

Fatigue toughness of irradiated vitamin E/UHMWPE blends

Radiation cross-linked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylenes (UHMWPEs) have become the standard-of-care in total joint replacements (TJR) in the last decade because of their superior wear resistance in comparison with previously used "conventional" gamma sterilized UHMWPE. Some first generation radiation cross-linked UHMWPEs were stabilized against oxidation by post-irradiation melting, which significantly reduced their fatigue crack propagation resistance or fatigue toughness. Second generation cross-linked UHMWPEs incorporated instead an antioxidant such as vitamin E, eliminating the need for melting. In this study, we investigated the fatigue crack propagation resistance and the impact toughness of vitamin E-blended and radiation cross-linked UHMWPEs as a function of vitamin E concentration and radiation dose. Both properties were strongly dependent on the cross-link density and they showed a good correlation with each other (R(2)  = 0.89). © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1514-1520, 2016.

Adherence of Staphylococcus aureus to Dyneema Purity® Patches and to Clinically Used Cardiovascular Prostheses

Various materials that are used for vascular and heart valve prostheses carry drawbacks: some require anticoagulant drugs or have moderate durability; others are not suitable for endovascular treatment. These prostheses are associated with bacterial infections. A material potentially suitable for prostheses is Dyneema Purity®, made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene. Dyneema Purity® fibers are very thin, flexible, resistant to fatigue and abrasion, and have high strength. S. aureus adherence to Dyneema Purity® was tested and compared with currently used cardiovascular prostheses. We compared adhesion of S. aureus to Dyneema Purity® (1 membrane-based and 1 yarn-composed patch) with 5 clinically used yarn-composed polyester and membrane-based expanded polytetrafluoroethylene patches. Patches were contaminated with S. aureus bacteria and bacterial adherence was quantified. S. aureus adherence was also visualized in flow conditions. Overall, bacterial adherence was higher on yarn-composed prosthesis materials, with a rough surface, than on the membrane-based materials, with a smooth surface. Adherence to Dyneema Purity® materials was non-inferior to the currently used materials. Therefore, patches of Dyneema Purity® might be attractive for use in cardiovascular applications such as catheter-based heart valves and endovascular prostheses by their good mechanical properties combined with their noninferiority regarding bacterial adhesion.

Total Hip Arthroplasty Using Metal Head on a Highly Cross-linked Polyethylene Liner

Purpose

This retrospective study was performed to evaluate the clinical results and measure polyethylene liner wear in total hip arthroplasty (THA) with highly cross-linked polyethylene.

Materials and Methods

Except for patients who had died or were unable to have follow-up at least 2 years, 60 of 78 hips that underwent THA were included this study. The mean age was 64.5 years (range, 25-81 years) and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 23.0 kg/m² (18.1-32.3 kg/m²). Diagnosis at the time of the operation was osteonecrois of the femoral head in 28 hips, primary osteoarthritis in 14, hip fracture in 13, and other diseases in 5. The mean follow-up period was 3.8 years (2.1-7.1 years). Harris hip score (HHS) was reviewed before THA and at the last follow-up. On the anteroposterior pelvic radiographs, acetabular cup inclination and ante-version were also measured. The annual linear wear rate was measured using Livermore's method on the radiographs.

Results

The mean HHS was 60.1 (28-94) before operation and 90.4 (47-100) at the last follow-up. In the immediate post-operation, the average inclination and anteversion angles of the acetabular cups were 46.3° (standard deviation, ±6.7°) and, 21.4°(±10.1°) respectively. The mean of the annual linear polyethylene wear was 0.079 mm/year (0.001-0.291 mm/year). Age, gender and BMI were not statistically related to linear polyethylene wear but the period of follow-up and the acetabular cup's inclination showed significant negative and positive correlation respectively.

Conclusion

The wear rate of a highly cross-linked polyethylene was shown to correlate negatively with duration of follow-up. However, our study was based on a short-term follow-up, so a long-term follow-up study is necessary in the future.

Does design matter? Cervical disc replacements under review

The present article reviews the design rationale of currently available cervical disc replacements. Recent prospective randomized control trials comparing cervical disc replacement and anterior fusion have demonstrated safety as well as equal or superior clinical results. Increasingly, more devices are becoming available on the market. Understanding design rationale will provide context for the surgeon to optimize decision making for the most appropriate prosthesis. Cervical arthroplasty is a technique that is undergoing rapid design refinement and development. Further improvements in device design will enable patient-specific device selection. Understanding the design rationale and complication profile of each device will improve clinical and radiographic outcomes.

Comparative Results From a National Joint Registry Hip Data Set of a New Cross-Linked Annealed Polyethylene vs Both Conventional Polyethylene and Ceramic Bearings

BACKGROUND

Major concerns in hip arthroplasty concern the fate of bearing surfaces. Highly cross-linked polyethylene materials (HXLPE) currently demonstrate successful in vitro results with new technical procedures of cross-linking the polyethylene material, whereas processing the polyethylene below its melting temperature to produce so-called "annealed HXLPE" would allow retention of important mechanical properties.

METHODS

Data released by the National Joint Registry of England and Wales addressing in 45,877 hips the same Trident uncemented cup, allowed us to compare the performance of a consecutive cohort of patients implanted with the newest generation of annealed HXLPE acetabular bearings (X3: 21,470) vs 2 consecutive nonselected cohorts, one with conventional polyethylene (N2vac: 8225) and one with ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) hip bearings (AL: 16,182). The main end point in survivorship has been first defined as revision for any cause, then for any cause which could be related to a failure of the bearing couple.

RESULTS

At 6-year follow-up, all Trident cups demonstrated encouraging global survival cumulative rates all between 95% and 99%. A first study demonstrated better survivorship with X3-HXLPE liners vs conventional ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene. On the second parallel study, the cumulative survival rates were better for X3 liners as compared to CoC bearings. Moreover, when ranking the yearly cumulative percent revision rates, again the best results were obtained with X3 liners with small alumina heads (cumulative percent revision rate at 0.298).

CONCLUSION

Within the frame of this Trident study, the use of this X3 highly cross-linked annealed polyethylene could be considered as a reliable alternate solution to CoC bearings.

Analysis of severely fractured glenoid components: clinical consequences of biomechanics, design, and materials selection on implant performance

BACKGROUND

The longevity of total shoulder replacement is primarily limited by the performance of the ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) glenoid component in vivo. Variations in glenoid design (conformity, thickness), biomechanics (joint kinematics), and UHMWPE material selection (sterilization, cross-linking) distinguish total shoulder replacements from hip and knee arthroplasty devices. These variables can lead to severe mechanical failures, including gross fracture.

METHODS

Sixteen retrieved glenoids with severe fracture were analyzed. The explant cohort included 3 material groups (gamma-sterilized Hylamer; gamma-sterilized UHMWPE; and gas plasma-sterilized, remelted, highly cross-linked UHMWPE [HXL]) and a range of conformities (0- to 10-mm radial mismatch). Analysis included fractography (optical and scanning electron microscopy) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for oxidative analysis.

RESULTS

Fracture primarily occurred along the exterior rim for all 16 explants. Fourier transform infrared analysis and fractography revealed significant oxidative embrittlement for all gamma-sterilized glenoids. Fatigue striations and internal flaws were evident on the fracture surface of the HXL glenoid, with little oxidation detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Fracture initiated at the external rim of all devices. Elevated oxidation levels and visible material distortion for representative gamma-sterilized conventional and Hylamer devices suggest oxidative embrittlement as a driving force for crack inception and subsequent fracture. Brittle fracture of theHXL glenoid resulted from a combination of elevated contact stress due to a nonconforming surface, an internal flaw, and reduced resistance to fatigue crack growth. This demonstrates that glenoid fracture associated with oxidation has not been eliminated with the advent of modern materials (HXL) in the shoulder domain.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Basic Science Study; Implant Retrieval Study.

Validation of a protocol based on Raman and infrared spectroscopies to nondestructively estimate the oxidative degradation of UHMWPE used in total joint arthroplasty

As a matter of fact, the in vivo oxidative degradation of highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) still remains one of the limiting factors that affect the long term survivorship of joint replacements. Recent studies clearly pointed out that also the new generation of highly cross-linked and remelted polyethylene components in total hip and knee replacement underwent unexpected oxidation after 5-10years of implantation. The standard methodology to investigate the oxidation of polyethylene (PE) relies on the use of infrared spectroscopy, which, if from one hand is a reliable technique for the detection of oxidized species containing carbonyl group, on the other hand it is not capable of discriminating the fraction of carboxyl acids that is responsible for chain scission and subsequent deterioration of the mechanical properties of the polymer. In the present study we validate a new protocol based on Raman spectroscopy, which is suitable on assessing the structural degradation of polyethylene induced by oxidation. Following in vitro accelerated aging experiments, the oxidation index (OI) of different commercially available HXLPEs, as calculated by infrared spectroscopy according to ASTM standard, has been univocally correlated to the most severe variation of crystalline phase (αc), as calculated by Raman spectroscopy. In each material, locations with equal values of OI showed different degree of recrystallization induced by chain scission, confirming that infrared spectroscopy might overestimate the effective mechanical degradation of the polymer. In addition, as compared to the standards based on infrared spectroscopy, this new method of assessing oxidation enables to investigate the degradation occurring on the original surface of HXLPE components, due to the nondestructive nature of Raman spectroscopy and its high spatial resolution.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

In the present study we validate a new protocol based on Raman spectroscopy, which is suitable on assessing the structural degradation of polyethylene induced by oxidation. In fact, the standard methodology to investigate the oxidation in polyethylene relies on the use of infrared spectroscopy, which is capable of detecting the presence of oxidized species containing carbonyl group, the main products of oxidation in polyolefins. If from one hand this technique enables quantitative analysis of oxidation, on the other hand it is not capable of discriminating the fraction of species with carbonyl groups responsible for the chain scission. In fact, esters, ketones and carboxyl acids are products of oxidation with carbonyl groups commonly formed on polyethylene at the end of the oxidative cascade initiated by the presence of free radicals, but only the latter are responsible for the chain scission and the subsequent deterioration of the mechanical properties. The oxidation index as obtained according to the ASTM standards is not univocally correlated to a certain degree of mechanical deterioration, but, in simple words, two retrievals with the same amount of carbonyl groups might have had different degradation of the mechanical properties. Recrystallization is a direct consequence of the reduction of molecular weight that occurs after chain scission. Raman spectroscopy (RS) is a viable non-destructive method to assess the fraction of crystalline phase in polyethylene and, due to its high spatial resolution, is perfectly suitable to analyze the microstructural modification at the mesoscopic scale, where the effects of oxidation manifest themselves. The aim of the present paper is twofold: i) to compare the microstructural modifications caused by in vitro oxidation on 5 different types of polyethylene currently available on the market of joint replacements; ii) to establish a protocol based on the comparative analysis of IR and RS results to obtain a phenomenological correlation capable to judge the mechanical deterioration of the material induced by the oxidative degradation.

Size and thickness effect on creep behavior in conventional and vitamin E-diffused highly crosslinked polyethylene for total hip arthroplasty

Since the early 2000s, the use of large femoral heads is becoming increasingly popular in total hip arthroplasty (THA), which provides an improved range of motion and joint stability. Large femoral heads commonly necessitate to be coupled with thinner acetabular liners than the conventionally used because of the limited sizes of outer shells (especially for patients with small pelvic size). However, the influence of the liner thinning on the mechanical performance is still not clearly understood. The objective of this study was to experimentally clarify the size and thickness effect on the rates of compressive creep strain in conventional (virgin low-crosslinked) and vitamin E-diffused highly crosslinked, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) acetabular liners. We applied uniaxial compression to these liners of various internal diameters (28, 32 and 36mm) and thicknesses (4.8, 6.8 and 8.9mm) up to 4320min under the constant load of 3000N. Vitamin E-diffused highly crosslinked UHMWPE components showed significantly greater creep resistance than the conventional ones. In the both types of UHMWPE, the rates of creep strain significantly decreased by increasing the internal diameter and thickness. Varying the component thickness contributed more largely to the creep behavior rather than the internal diameter. Our results suggest the positive mechanical advantage of using large femoral heads, but at the same time, a considerable liner thinning is not recommended for minimizing creep strain. Therefore, the further in-vitro as well as in-vivo research are necessary to conclude the optimal balance of head diameter and liner thickness within the limited sizes of outer shells.

Poor performance of Enduron polyethylene liner in total hip arthroplasty: a minimum ten-year follow up and ultra-morphological analysis of wear particles

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the long-term outcome and the wear characteristics of two distinct types of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) liners in total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective clinical study on patients which were treated with total hip arthroplasty using either Enduron polyethylene (Enduron PE) or Trilogy polyethylene (Trilogy PE) liners based on a minimum of ten year follow up data. Morphological analyses of wear particles from tissue samples, which were harvested during revision surgeries, were also performed.

RESULTS

A total of 79 THAs in the Enduron group and 55 THAs in the Trilogy group were available for analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival with revision for wear-related complications as the endpoint of the Enduron PE liners was lower than that of Trilogy PE liners at ten years (93.5 % and 100 %, P = 0.03). The Enduron group had higher mean linear wear rate than that of the Trilogy group (0.20 ± 0.09 and 0.09 ± 0.03 mm/year, P < 0.01). The incidence of osteolysis for the Enduron group was higher than that of the Trilogy group (33.3 % and 12 %, P = 0.04). Under transmission electron microscopy, the Enduron group had more than 82 % of the particles less than 1.0 μm in size and more than 57 % of the particles less than 0.5 μm.

CONCLUSION

The long-term performance of Enduron liners was worse than that of Trilogy liners. Further clinical follow-up may be necessary in patients with Enduron PE liners in order to avoid catastrophic complications.

Surgical treatments for osteoarthritis

There are two main surgical treatments for osteoarthritis: conservative treatments, where the damaged cartilage is left in place, and radical treatments, where the cartilage is replaced by an artificial endoprosthesis; this latter procedure is termed joint arthroplasty. These treatments are only offered to symptomatic patients. Arthrodesis is yet another surgical intervention in cases of osteoarthritis. It will sacrifice the joint's articular function and is performed on small osteoarthritic joints, such as wrists and ankles, for instance. Osteoarthritis symptoms are usually the consequence of an imbalance between the load applied to a joint and the surface available to support that load. Therefore, conservative treatments will either tend to decrease the load exerted on the joint, such as in a tibial valgus osteotomy for instance, or to improve the articular surface supporting that load. Sometimes, both can be provided at the same time; the peri-acetabular osteotomy for hip dysplasia is an example of such a procedure. Conservative treatments are usually offered to young patients in order to delay, if not avoid, the need for a joint prosthesis. They are usually performed before osteoarthritis appears or at an early stage. Joint arthroplasties have overwhelmingly excellent functional results and today's research is directed towards providing rapid recovery, very long-term stability, and the assurance of a good functionality in extreme conditions. However, complications with joint arthroplasties can be serious with little, if any, reasonable salvage solution. Therefore, these procedures are offered to patients who have failed adequate medical treatment measures.