High-turnover periprosthetic bone remodeling and immature bone formation around loose cemented total hip joints

Friend or foe? Inflammation and the foreign body response to orthopedic biomaterials

The use of biomaterials and implants for joint replacement, fracture fixation, spinal stabilization and other orthopedic indications has revolutionized patient care by reliably decreasing pain and improving function. These surgical procedures always invoke an acute inflammatory reaction initially, that in most cases, readily subsides. Occasionally, chronic inflammation around the implant develops and persists; this results in unremitting pain and compromises function. The etiology of chronic inflammation may be specific, such as with infection, or be unknown. The histological hallmarks of chronic inflammation include activated macrophages, fibroblasts, T cell subsets, and other cells of the innate immune system. The presence of cells of the adaptive immune system usually indicates allergic reactions to metallic haptens. A foreign body reaction is composed of activated macrophages, giant cells, fibroblasts, and other cells often distributed in a characteristic histological arrangement; this reaction is usually due to particulate debris and other byproducts from the biomaterials used in the implant. Both chronic inflammation and the foreign body response have adverse biological effects on the integration of the implant with the surrounding tissues. Strategies to mitigate chronic inflammation and the foreign body response will enhance the initial incorporation and longevity of the implant, and thereby, improve long-term pain relief and overall function for the patient. The seminal research performed in the laboratory of Dr. James Anderson and co-workers has provided an inspirational and driving force for our laboratory's work on the interactions and crosstalk among cells of the mesenchymal, immune, and vascular lineages, and orthopedic biomaterials. Dr. Anderson's delineation of the fundamental biologic processes and mechanisms underlying acute and chronic inflammation, the foreign body response, resolution, and eventual functional integration of implants in different organ systems has provided researchers with a strategic approach to the use of biomaterials to improve health in numerous clinical scenarios.

Prevention of bone dehiscence associated with orthodontic tooth movement by prophylactic injection of bone anabolic agents in mice

Although bone dehiscence may occur during orthodontic tooth movement into the narrow alveolar ridge, a non-invasive prevention method is yet to be fully established. We show for the first time prevention of bone dehiscence associated with orthodontic tooth movement by prophylactic injection of bone anabolic agents in mice. In this study, we established a bone dehiscence mouse model by applying force application and used the granular type of scaffold materials encapsulated with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 and OP3-4, the receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-binding peptide, for the prophylactic injection to the alveolar bone. In vivo micro-computed tomography revealed bone dehiscence with decreased buccal alveolar bone thickness and height after force application, whereas no bone dehiscence was observed with the prophylactic injection after force application, and alveolar bone thickness and height were kept at similar levels as those in the control group. Bone histomorphometry analyses revealed that both bone formation and resorption parameters were significantly higher in the injection with force application group than in the force application without the prophylactic injection group. These findings suggest that the prophylactic local delivery of bone anabolic reagents can prevent bone dehiscence with increased bone remodelling activity.

The predictive significance of bone mineral density on postoperative pain relief in knee osteoarthritis patients after total knee arthroplasty: A prediction model

BACKGROUND

Bone mineral density (BMD) may be an important factor affecting the clinical outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, further information regarding BMD in postoperative pain relief is not present yet. This study aims to gain further insight into the predictive significance of BMD in postoperative pain relief in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients after TKA.

METHODS

156 KOA patients treated by TKA were included in this study. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to measure the pain intensity in patients within one year after TKA. The patients were divided into good pain relief group (the improvement of VAS ≥ 3) and poor pain relief group (the improvement of VAS < 3). BMD and other clinical characteristics were also collected. Logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) were used to evaluate the predictive significance of BMD. Subgroup analysis was used to compare the difference of postoperative pain between High BMD group and Low BMD group extra.

RESULTS

34 (21.8%) patients had poor pain relief after TKA. Logistic regression analysis indicated that age, BMD, preoperative hospital for special surgery (HSS) scores, preoperative VAS score and postoperative posterior slope angles (PSA) were the risk factors of poor pain relief (P < 0.05). Using BMD as a predictor, the optimum cut-off value of poor pain relief was T-level = -3.0 SD in the ROC curve, where sensitivity and specificity were 73.5% and 83.7%, respectively. Based on this cut-off value, obvious pain relief was observed in the High BMD group compared with Low BMD group from the 6th month after TKA in the subgroup analysis (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

BMD is an effective predictor for postoperative pain relief in KOA patients after TKA, and the poor pain relief should be fully considered especially when BMD T-level ≤ -3.0 SD.

IRAK-4 in macrophages contributes to inflammatory osteolysis of wear particles around loosened hip implants

TLRs recognizing PAMPS play a role in local immunity and participate in implant-associated loosening. TLR-mediated signaling is primarily regulated by IL-1 receptor associated kinase-M (IRAK-M) negatively and IRAK-4 positively. Our previous studies have proved that wear particles promote endotoxin tolerance in macrophages by inducing IRAK-M. However, whether IRAK-4 is involved in inflammatory osteolysis of wear particles basically, and the specific mechanism of IRAK-4 around loosened hip implants, is still unclear. IRAK-4 was studied in the interface membranes from patients in vivo and in particle-stimulated macrophages to clarify its role. Also, IL-1β and TNF-α levels were measured after particle and LPS stimulation in macrophages with or without IRAK-4 silenced by siRNA. Our results showed that the interface membranes around aseptic and septic loosened prosthesis expressed more IRAK-4 compared with membranes from osteoarthritic patients. IRAK-4 in macrophages increased upon particle and LPS stimulation. In the former, IL-1β and TNF-α levels were lower compared with those of LPS stimulation, and IRAK-4 siRNA could suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings suggest that besides IRAK-M, IRAK-4 also plays an important role in the local inflammatory reaction and contributes to prosthesis loosening.

Diagnosis and management of implant debris-associated inflammation

Introduction: Total joint replacement is one of the most common, safe, and efficacious operations in all of surgery. However, one major long-standing and unresolved issue is the adverse biological reaction to byproducts of wear from the bearing surfaces and modular articulations. These inflammatory reactions are mediated by the innate and adaptive immune systems.Areas covered: We review the etiology and pathophysiology of implant debris-associated inflammation, the clinical presentation and detailed work-up of these cases, and the principles and outcomes of non-operative and operative management. Furthermore, we suggest future strategies for prevention and novel treatments of implant-related adverse biological reactions.Expert opinion: The generation of byproducts from joint replacements is inevitable, due to repetitive loading of the implants. A clear understanding of the relevant biological principles, clinical presentations, investigative measures and treatments for implant-associated inflammatory reactions and periprosthetic osteolysis will help identify and treat patients with this issue earlier and more effectively. Although progressive implant-associated osteolysis is currently a condition that is treated surgically, with further research, it is hoped that non-operative biological interventions could prolong the lifetime of joint replacements that are otherwise functional and still salvageable.

Osteoclasts in Periprosthetic Osteolysis: The Charnley Arthroplasty Revisited

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic osteolysis by polyethylene wear debris-triggered osteoclasts is viewed as the main pathophysiological pathway in aseptic loosening in total hip arthroplasty. The present aim was to study osteoclast occurrence in osteolytic lesions in early and late revisions of the Charnley low-friction torque arthroplasty (CLFA).

METHODS

Biopsies of the soft interface membrane and the adjacent bone were taken from osteolytic lesions during revision of 16 loose CLFA, early (2-6 years) or late (>10 years) after primary surgery. By light microscopy (LM), cell-dense regions with signs of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption were selected for transmission electron microscopy. Three additional patients were studied in LM for osteoclast markers (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase and Cathepsin K).

RESULTS

LM disclosed a low-grade chronic inflammation and birefringent particles in most sections. Multiple conglomerates of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase positive and Cathepsin K positive mononuclear and multinucleated cells were found deep in the fibrous interface membrane. Transmission electron microscopy showed traces of polyethylene-like particles in 67%-100% of the cells. Osteoclast-like cells exhibiting resorptive activity were few (mean, 0.7%; standard deviation, 0.2%), and multinucleated cells, possibly osteoclast precursor cells, located immediately on the bone were also scarce (mean, 2.7%; standard deviation, 5.3%). Multinucleated (odds ratio, 3.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.7-5.5) and macrophage-like cells (odds ratio, 3.6; 95% confidence interval, 2.2-5.6) were typically located deeper in the inflammatory interface membrane with a pathologic appearance with distension and abundance of phagocytic vacuoles. There were no systematic differences in cell populations between early or late revisions.

CONCLUSION

Despite probable ongoing osteoclastogenesis in the osteolytic lesions, there were few sites of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. These findings attach a contributing biological explanation to the longevity of the CLFA.

Peri-prosthetic tissue cells show osteogenic capacity to differentiate into the osteoblastic lineage

During the process of aseptic loosening of prostheses, particulate wear debris induces a continuous inflammatory-like response resulting in the formation of a layer of fibrous peri-prosthetic tissue at the bone-prosthesis interface. The current treatment for loosening is revision surgery which is associated with a high-morbidity rate, especially in old patients. Therefore, less invasive alternatives are necessary. One approach could be to re-establish osseointegration of the prosthesis by inducing osteoblast differentiation in the peri-prosthetic tissue. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the capacity of peri-prosthetic tissue cells to differentiate into the osteoblast lineage. Cells isolated from peri-prosthetic tissue samples (n = 22)-obtained during revision surgeries-were cultured under normal and several osteogenic culture conditions. Osteogenic differentiation was assessed by measurement of Alkaline Phosphatse (ALP), mineralization of the matrix and expression of several osteogenic genes. Cells cultured in osteogenic medium showed a significant increase in ALP staining (p = 0.024), mineralization of the matrix (p < 0.001) and ALP gene expression (p = 0.014) compared to normal culture medium. Addition of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), a specific GSK3β inhibitor (GIN) or a combination of BMP and GIN to osteogenic medium could not increase ALP staining, mineralization, and ALP gene expression. In one donor, addition of GIN was required to induce mineralization of the matrix. Overall, we observed a high-inter-donor variability in response to osteogenic stimuli. In conclusion, peri-prosthetic tissue cells, cultured under osteogenic conditions, can produce alkaline phosphatase and mineralized matrix, and therefore show characteristics of differentiation into the osteoblastic lineage. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 35:1732-1742, 2017.

Evidence that osteocyte perilacunar remodelling contributes to polyethylene wear particle induced osteolysis

Periprosthetic osteolysis (PO) leading to aseptic loosening, is the most common cause of failure of total hip replacement (THR) in the mid- to long-term. Polyethylene (PE) particulates from the wear of prosthesis liners are bioactive and are implicated in the initiation and or progression of osteolysis. Evidence exists that cells of the osteoblast/osteocyte lineage are affected by PE particles and contribute to the catabolic response by promoting osteoclastic bone resorption. In this study, we hypothesised that osteocytes contribute directly to PO by removing bone from their perilacunar matrix. Osteocyte responses to ultra-high molecular weight PE (UHMWPE) particles were examined in vitro in human primary osteocyte-like cultures, in vivo in the mouse calvarial osteolysis model, and in the acetabulum of patients undergoing revision total hip replacement (THR) surgery for PO. Osteocytes exposed to UHMWPE particles showed upregulated expression of catabolic markers, MMP-13, carbonic anhydrase 2 (CA2), cathepsin K (CTSK) and tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), with no effect on cell viability, as assessed by Caspase 3 activity. Consistent with this catabolic activity causing perilacunar bone loss, histological analysis of calvarial sections from mice exposed to UHMWPE revealed a significant (p<0.001) increase in osteocyte lacunar area (Lac.Ar) compared to sham-operated animals. Furthermore, acetabular biopsies from patients with PO also showed significantly (p<0.001) increased osteocyte lacunar size in trabecular bone adjacent to PE particles, compared with osteocyte lacunar size in bone from primary THR patients. Together, these findings suggest a previously unrecognised action of UHMWPE wear particles on osteocytes, which directly results in a loss of osteocyte perilacunar bone. This action may exacerbate the indirect pro-osteoclastic action of UHMWPE-affected osteocytes, previously shown to contribute to aseptic loosening of orthopaedic implants.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

This study addresses the clinical problem of periprosthetic osteolysis, bone loss in response to polyethylene wear particles derived from materials used in orthopaedic implants. Periprosthetic osteolysis has been thought to be due largely to wear particles stimulating the activity of bone resorbing osteoclasts. However, in this study we demonstrate for the first time that polyethylene particles stimulate another type of bone loss, mediated by the direct activity of bone mineral embedded osteocytes, termed osteocytic osteolysis or osteocyte perilacunar remodelling. This study provides new mechanistic insight into wear-particle mediated bone loss and represents a new paradigm for the way in which bone cells, namely osteocytes, the key controlling cell type in bone, react to biomaterials.

Contributions of human tissue analysis to understanding the mechanisms of loosening and osteolysis in total hip replacement

Aseptic loosening and osteolysis are the most frequent late complications of total hip arthroplasty (THA) leading to revision of the prosthesis. This review aims to demonstrate how histopathological studies contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms of aseptic loosening/osteolysis development. Only studies analysing periprosthetic tissues retrieved from failed implants in humans were included. Data from 101 studies (5532 patients with failure of THA implants) published in English or German between 1974 and 2013 were included. "Control" samples were reported in 45 of the 101 studies. The most frequently examined tissues were the bone-implant interface membrane and pseudosynovial tissues. Histopathological studies contribute importantly to determination of key cell populations underlying the biological mechanisms of aseptic loosening and osteolysis. The studies demonstrated the key molecules of the host response at the protein level (chemokines, cytokines, nitric oxide metabolites, metalloproteinases). However, these studies also have important limitations. Tissues harvested at revision surgery reflect specifically end-stage failure and may not adequately reveal the evolution of pathophysiological events that lead to prosthetic loosening and osteolysis. One possible solution is to examine tissues harvested from stable total hip arthroplasties that have been revised at various time periods due to dislocation or periprosthetic fracture in multicenter studies.

Multiple biomarkers analysis for the early detection of prosthetic aseptic loosening of hip arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Our aim was to define the effect of multiple biomarkers of osteolysis or bone remodelling in the early detection of aseptic loosening (AL) of total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHOD

One hundred subjects were recruited, including 31 candidates for revision THA (Late AL group), 15 patients who had undergone THA and had clinical and radiographic evidence of AL (early AL group), 19 patients with no sign of AL (stable group), and 40 healthy volunteers. Plasma levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL), cross-linked N-terminal telopeptide (NTX), procollagen I C-terminal extension peptide (PICP), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL)-1β1 were measured using an immunoenzymatic method. The outcomes of biomarkers were analysed separately and synthetically using Revman software.

RESULTS

The plasma level of OPG, RANKL, NTX, TNF-α, and IL-1β declined from late AL, early AL, stable to the healthy group, while the level of PICP inclined reversely. There was a significant difference in synthetic analysis of six biomarkers between the AL group and the stable group, and between the stable group and the healthy group (both p = 0.02). Heterogeneity of six biomarkers in either comparison was extremely low (both I(2) =0). Patients who had cemented implants had significantly higher levels of TNF-α than patients with cementless varieties (p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

There was significant change in the plasma level of multiple biomarkers in patients with prosthetic AL of THA, especially in the cemented arthroplasties and in patients without traditional clinical or radiographic evidence of AL.

Polyethylene particles stimulate expression of ITAM-related molecules in peri-implant tissues and when stimulating osteoclastogenesis in vitro

Wear particle-induced orthopaedic prosthesis loosening is associated with elevated osteoclast activity. The immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM)-related molecules OSCAR, FcRγ, TREM2 and DAP12 are important for osteoclast formation. The aim of this study was to determine if these molecules are involved in peri-implant loosening by investigating their expression in peri-implant tissues obtained at revision of joint replacement components containing polyethylene (PE) wear particles, and in osteoclasts formed in vitro in the presence of PE particles. The results showed that there was a marked and statistically significant increase in protein levels of the ITAM-related molecules in the revision tissues. The levels of OSCAR, FcRγ, TREM2 and DAP12 mRNA in the revision tissues were also increased. In vitro PE particles stimulated osteoclast resorption in the presence of 50 ng ml(-1) receptor activator NFκB (RANKL) and significantly elevated the expression of OSCAR, FcRγ, TREM2 and DAP12 during osteoclast formation. These findings suggest that the ITAM signalling molecules and their co-receptors have a role in pathogenic bone loss associated with implant PE wear.

Role of polyethylene particles in peri-prosthetic osteolysis: A review

There is convincing evidence that particles produced by the wear of joint prostheses are causal in the peri-prosthetic loss of bone, or osteolysis, which, if it progresses, leads to the phenomenon of aseptic loosening. It is important to fully understand the biology of this bone loss because it threatens prosthesis survival, and loosened implants can result in peri-prosthetic fracture, which is disastrous for the patient and presents a difficult surgical scenario. The focus of this review is the bioactivity of polyethylene (PE) particles, since there is evidence that these are major players in the development and progression of osteolysis around prostheses which use PE as the bearing surface. The review describes the biological consequences of interaction of PE particles with macrophages, osteoclasts and cells of the osteoblast lineage, including osteocytes. It explores the possible cellular mechanisms of action of PE and seeks to use the findings to date to propose potential non-surgical treatments for osteolysis. In particular, a non-surgical approach is likely to be applicable to implants containing newer, highly cross-linked PEs (HXLPEs), for which osteolysis seems to occur with much reduced PE wear compared with conventional PEs. The caveat here is that we know little as yet about the bioactivity of HXLPE particles and addressing this constitutes our next challenge.

IRAK-M in macrophages around septically and aseptically loosened hip implants

The most common long-term complication of joint arthroplasty is loosening, which is mediated by chronic inflammatory cytokines produced by macrophages stimulated by implant-derived debris and eventually bacterial components adherent to such debris. In this study, antiinflammatory interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase-M (IRAK-M) was studied in macrophages in interface membranes in vivo using immunohistochemical staining and in titanium particle-stimulated macrophages in vitro using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Results show that the interface membranes of septically and aseptically loosened prosthesis express more IRAK-M protein than control membranes from osteoarthritic patient and that IRAK-M mRNA-levels increase upon particle stimulation. These findings suggest that, the upregulation of IRAK-M in macrophages is involved in the local immunosuppression around implants, and may contribute to septic and aseptic implant loosening.

Polyethylene wear particles do not induce inflammation or gelatinase (MMP-2 and MMP-9) activity in fibrous tissue interfaces of loosening total hip arthroplasties

In vitro and in vivo studies have suggested that polyethylene wear particles are the main cause for osteolysis in prosthetic loosening. Elevated amounts of proteases including gelatinases (or matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9) have been found in fibrous tissue interfaces of loosened total hip arthroplasties suggesting that proteolysis plays a role in osteolysis. The presence of proteases does not mean that they are active, because activity of proteases is highly regulated at the post-translational level. We investigated whether the activity of two major proteases that are active extracellularly and have been associated with loosening, MMP-2 and MMP-9, is involved in loosening of non-cemented hip implants with polyethylene acetabular components. Eight interface tissues retrieved during revision were studied with light and electron microscopy and by in situ zymography to localize MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity in combination with immunohistochemistry to localize MMP-2 and MMP-9 proteins. All interface tissues contained large amounts of polyethylene wear particles, either in large accumulations or dispersed in the extracellular matrix or intracellularly in fibroblasts. Particles were not encountered in association with MMP-2 or MMP-9 activity or leukocytes. Inflammation was never found. MMP-9 activity was restricted to macrophages and MMP-2 activity was restricted to microvascular endothelial cells mainly outside areas where particles were present. Our data indicate that wear particles do not induce activation of leukocytes or MMP-2 or MMP-9 activity. Therefore, aseptic loosening may not be particle induced but initiated by other mechanisms such as mechanical stress.

Fluid pressure and flow as a cause of bone resorption

BACKGROUND

Unstable implants in bone become surrounded by an osteolytic zone. This is seen around loose screws, for example, but may also contribute to prosthetic loosening. Previous animal studies have shown that such zones can be induced by fluctuations in fluid pressure or flow, caused by implant instability.

METHOD

To understand the roles of pressure and flow, we describe the 3-dimensional distribution of osteolytic lesions in response to fluid pressure and flow in a previously reported rat model of aseptic loosening. 50 rats had a piston inserted in the proximal tibia, designed to produce 20 local spikes in fluid pressure of a clinically relevant magnitude (700 mmHg) twice a day. The spikes lasted for about 0.3 seconds. After 2 weeks, the pressure was measured in vivo, and the osteolytic lesions induced were studied using micro-CT scans.

RESULTS

Most bone resorption occurred at pre-existing cavities within the bone in the periphery around the pressurized region, and not under the piston. This region is likely to have a higher fluid flow and less pressure than the area just beneath the piston. The velocity of fluid flow was estimated to be very high (roughly 20 mm/s).

INTERPRETATION

The localization of the resorptive lesions suggests that high-velocity fluid flow is important for bone resorption induced by instability.

High pressure may inhibit periprosthetic osteogenesis

Mechanical effects have been demonstrated to activate periprosthetic osteoclasts and hence to promote bone resorption. However, the periprosthetic mechanical effect on osteoblast function is not clearly understood. The purpose of this study was to explore whether the high pressure on bone caused by a prosthesis affects periprosthetic osteoblast function. We applied static pressure of various magnitudes to SV40-transfected human fetal osteoblast cells, then assayed bioactivities compared to cells cultured without pressure (control). The results showed that osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, necrosis, and mineralization were all sensitive to static pressure, and the effects were magnitude dependent. Low-level static pressure (20 kPa) enhanced osteogenesis. Under 50-100 kPa static pressure, proliferation was inhibited and apoptosis was enhanced, but the cellular phenotype could be maintained. High pressure (250-500 kPa) totally inhibited the bioactivity of the osteoblasts and induced necrosis. Mineralization nodules decreased significantly under 100 kPa pressure, while no nodules could be found under 250 and 500 kPa pressure. RUNX2, COL-1, and BGP mRNA expression was significantly downregulated under 250 and 500 kPa. SOX9 expression was significantly upregulated at 100 kPa but significantly downregulated at 250 and 500 kPa. RANKL/OPG expression was increased under pressure, and the differences were significant at 100 and 500 kPa. These results suggest that periprosthetic high pressure may inhibit osteogenesis and promote osteoclastogenesis. Countermeasures should be developed to improve periprosthetic osteogenesis.

Effect of locally administered zoledronic acid on injury-induced intramembranous bone regeneration and osseointegration of a titanium implant in rats

BACKGROUND

Intramedullary implantation causes injury-induced stimulation of intramembranous bone regeneration. Intramedullary bone injury along with stress shielding may induce periimplant bone loss and cause early aseptic loosening of an implant. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of locally administered zoledronic acid on periimplant bone and injury-induced stimulation of intramembranous bone regeneration in a rat model.

METHODS

A total of 28 male rats had a titanium implant inserted into their right femur. During the operation, the medullary canal was lavaged using 20 muM zoledronic acid (Zometa 4 mg/5 ml) or sodium chloride. Follow-up times were 4 and 12 weeks, with each follow-up group consisting of seven rats. The femurs with the titanium implants in situ were harvested, and three microscope sections were cut from each femur. The sections were photographed and analyzed with the Analysis computer program.

RESULTS

Between 4 and 12 weeks, the length of fluorescence bone contact increased significantly in both groups (control 15.7% SD and zoledronic acid 18.8% SD), although the difference between the groups was not significant. Periimplant bone volume (thickness) was increased in the 4-week zoledronic acid group compared to the controls (+/-13.4%, P = 0.002) but at 12 weeks the groups no longer differed from each other.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that zoledronic acid may prevent injury-induced bone loss near an intramedullary implant by inhibiting bone resorption shortly after implantation. This may provide better periimplant bone stock during the early postoperative period.

Increased Expression of Toll-like Receptors in Aseptic Loose Periprosthetic Tissues and Septic Synovial Membranes Around Total Hip Implants

Objective.

Toll-like receptors (TLR) are transmembrane proteins found in various cells. They recognize infectious and endogenous threats, so-called danger signals, that evoke inflammation and assist adaptive immune reactions. It has been suggested that TLR play a role in periprosthetic tissues and arthritic synovium. Our objective was to elucidate tissue localization and functional roles of TLR in periprosthetic tissues in 2 different pathologic conditions, aseptic and septic implant loosening.

Methods.

For immunohistochemistry studies, aseptic synovial-like membranes of periprosthetic connective tissues (n = 15) and septic synovial capsular tissues (n = 5) were obtained at revision surgery and from salvage of infected totally replaced hips, respectively. Osteoarthritic synovial tissues were used for comparison (n = 5). Samples were processed for immunohistopathologic analyses for tissue colocalization of TLR with CD68 and/or CD15 using theAlexa fluorescent system. Total RNA was isolated from frozen tissues and converted into cDNA, TLR 2, 4, 5 and 9 sequences were amplified, and the products were quantified using real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results.

Immunofluorescent staining showed colocalization of TLR 2, 4, 5, and 9 with CD68 in the focal monocyte/macrophage aggregates in aseptic synovial-like membranes from loose total hip replacements. TLR 2, 4, 5, and 9 were also found colocalized with CD15+ polymorphonuclear leukocytes and CD68+ mononuclear cells of the synovial membranes from septic total hip replacements. In osteoarthritic synovial tissues, expression of TLR was found only in vascular cells and mononuclear cells, and the reactivity was weak. mRNA levels of TLR 2, 4, 5, and 9 were increased in both aseptic and septic periprosthetic tissues. TLR 2 and 5 were significantly higher than TLR 4 and 9 in aseptic and septic samples.

Conclusion.

Peri-implant tissues were well equipped with TLR in both aseptic and septic conditions. TLR 2- and TLR 5-mediated responses seemed to dominate. In aseptic loosening, monocytes/ macrophages were the main TLR-equipped cells apparently responsible for alarmin-induced responses. This could lead to production of inflammatory cytokines and extracellular matrix-degrading proteinases after phagocytosis of wear debris derived from an implant, but in septic cases they eventually respond to microbial components. Thus, inflammatory cells in both aseptic and septic tissues were equipped with TLR, providing them with responsiveness to both endogenous and exogenous TLR ligands.

Effects of synovial fluid from aseptic prosthesis loosening on collagen production in osteoblasts

Synovial fluid from a loose prosthesis may act as a vehicle for factors that regulate bone turnover. The effect of such synovial fluid on osteoblasts has been studied. Synovial fluid obtained from patients who underwent revision hip arthroplasty because of aseptic prosthesis loosening was studied regarding the effect on protein synthesis, procollagen I mRNA expression, the secretion of procollagen I carboxyterminal propeptide (PICP) and osteocalcin in MG63 osteoblasts. Protein synthesis was increased and procollagen I mRNA expression was decreased by synovial fluid from patients with prosthesis loosening. Synovial fluid stimulated the total PICP in cell medium, but there was no change after correction for cell protein content in the cells. Synovial fluid in patients with prosthesis loosening has a general stimulatory effect on collagen formation and osteoblast proliferation because of a stimulatory effect on cell growth. Aseptic prosthesis loosening may be associated with an increase in bone formation.

Enhanced osteolytic potential of monocytes/macrophages derived from bone marrow after particle stimulation

BACKGROUND

Total hip replacement can be complicated by periprosthetic osteolysis. Monocytes/macrophages play a major role in the formation of the foreign body granulomas induced by wear debris. We hypothesized that periprosthetic monocytes/macrophages do not only accelerate inflammatory and osteoclast-mediated osteolytic processes, but also resorb periprosthetic bone directly by themselves. This study was designed to evaluate the osteolytic potential in vitro of monocytes/macrophages derived from bone marrow.

METHODS

Monocytes/macrophages were produced by filtration of rat bone marrow cells, followed by culture in the presence of macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF). Monocyte/macrophage properties were ascertained using immunocytochemistry and phagocytic activity. Osteolytic cytokines and extracellular matrix degrading proteinases were quantified at the mRNA level.

RESULTS

Adherent cell fraction was immunoreactive for the monocyte/macrophage specific marker CD68 and active in the phagocytosis of carbon particles up to 72 h. They also showed immunoreactivity to cathepsin K, IL-1beta, IL-6, and M-CSF, but mostly did not react to TRAP. mRNA levels of osteolytic cytokines and extracellular matrix degrading proteinases were enhanced, but that of RANKL were not. Monocytes/macrophages resorbed dentine discs and carbonated calcium phosphate was very actively resorbed after stimulation with titanium particles.

DISCUSSION

Harvested bone marrow cells expressed monocyte/macrophage phenotype, but not osteoclastic markers. The capacity of these cathepsin-K-positive phagocytic cells to resorb dentine discs and carbonated calcium phosphate in vitro suggests a direct role of monocytes/macrophages in bone resorption and periprosthetic osteolysis. The finding supports our hypothesis and previous histomorphometric observations on the presence of such osteolytic macrophages in vivo around loosening prosthesis.

Microstimulation at the bone-implant interface upregulates osteoclast activation pathways

Peri-implant bone resorption after total joint arthroplasty is a key parameter in aseptic loosening. Implant wear debris and biomechanical aspects have both been demonstrated to be part of the bone resorption process. However, neither of these two parameters has been clearly identified as the primary initiator of peri-implant bone resorption. For the biomechanical parameters, micromotions were measured at the bone-implant interface during normal gait cycles. The amplitude of the micromotions was shown to trigger differentiation of bone tissues. So far no data exists directly quantifying the effect of micromotion and compression on human bone. We hypothesize that micromotion and compression at the bone-implant interface may induce direct activation of bone resorption around the implant through osteoblasts-osteoclasts cell signaling in human bone. This hypothesis was tested with an ex vivo loading system developed to stimulate trabecular bone cores and mimic the micromotions arising at the bone-implant interface. Gene expression of RANKL, OPG, TGFB2, IFNG and CSF-1 was analyzed after no mechanical stimulation (control), exposure to compression or exposure to micromotions. We observed an 8-fold upregulation of RANKL after exposure to micromotions, and downregulation of OPG, IFNG and TGFB2. The RANKL:OPG ratio was upregulated 24-fold after micromotions. This suggests that the micromotions arising at the bone-implant interface during normal gait cycles induce a bone resorption response after only 1 h, which occurs before any wear debris particles enter the system.

Variation in the secreted frizzled-related protein-3 gene and risk of osteolysis and heterotopic ossification after total hip arthroplasty

Secreted frizzled-related protein-3 (sFRP3) antagonizes ligands that promote new bone formation in adult tissues. We examined whether variation in the FRZB gene that encodes sFRP3 is associated with development of osteolysis or heterotopic ossification (HO) after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Genomic DNA was extracted from 609 subjects (osteolysis group n = 268) at a mean of 11 years following cemented THA for idiopathic osteoarthritis and genotyped for the FRZB Arg200Trp and Arg324Gly polymorphisms. The Brooker classification was used to assess HO following primary THA in 563 of the subjects. The carriage rate of the FRZB 200Trp allele was 14.2% in subjects with osteolysis versus 21.0% in controls (p = 0.041). The carriage rate of this allele was 21.7% in subjects with HO (n = 299) versus 12.0% in those without HO (p = 0.063). The odds ratio for osteolysis with carriage of FRZB 200Trp was 0.62 (95% CI 0.38 to 0.99; p = 0.049) and for HO was 1.64 (1.05 to 2.54; p = 0.028), after adjustment for the effects of other risk factors associated with the development of osteolysis or HO. Variants in the FRZB 324 locus alone were not associated with osteolysis or HO. However, the most frequent haplotype (FRZB 200Arg:324Arg) was associated with osteolysis (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.09 to 2.07; p = 0.014). Our data suggest that the FRZB Arg200Trp locus may be a marker for pro-osteoblastic activity after THA. Carriage of the FRZB 200Trp allele is associated with a "positive" bone balance phenotype (osteolysis -: HO+).

Effects on osteoclast and osteoblast activities in cultured mouse calvarial bones by synovial fluids from patients with a loose joint prosthesis and from osteoarthritis patients

Aseptic loosening of a joint prosthesis is associated with remodelling of bone tissue in the vicinity of the prosthesis. In the present study, we investigated the effects of synovial fluid (SF) from patients with a loose prosthetic component and periprosthetic osteolysis on osteoclast and osteoblast activities in vitro and made comparisons with the effects of SF from patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Bone resorption was assessed by the release of calcium 45 (⁴⁵Ca) from cultured calvariae. The mRNA expression in calvarial bones of molecules known to be involved in osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation was assessed using semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR. SFs from patients with a loose joint prosthesis and patients with OA, but not SFs from healthy subjects, significantly enhanced ⁴⁵Ca release, effects associated with increased mRNA expression of calcitonin receptor and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. The mRNA expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa-B ligand (rankl) and osteoprotegerin (opg) was enhanced by SFs from both patient categories. The mRNA expressions of nfat2 (nuclear factor of activated T cells 2) and oscar (osteoclast-associated receptor) were enhanced only by SFs from patients with OA, whereas the mRNA expressions of dap12 (DNAX-activating protein 12) and fcrγ (Fc receptor common gamma subunit) were not affected by either of the two SF types. Bone resorption induced by SFs was inhibited by addition of OPG. Antibodies neutralising interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, soluble IL-6 receptor, IL-17, or tumour necrosis factor-α, when added to individual SFs, only occasionally decreased the bone-resorbing activity. The mRNA expression of alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin was increased by SFs from patients with OA, whereas only osteocalcin mRNA was increased by SFs from patients with a loose prosthesis. Our findings demonstrate the presence of a factor (or factors) stimulating both osteoclast and osteoblast activities in SFs from patients with a loose joint prosthesis and periprosthetic osteolysis as well as in SFs from patients with OA. SF-induced bone resorption was dependent on activation of the RANKL/RANK/OPG pathway. The bone-resorbing activity could not be attributed solely to any of the known pro-inflammatory cytokines, well known to stimulate bone resorption, or to RANKL or prostaglandin E₂ in SFs. The data indicate that SFs from patients with a loose prosthesis or with OA stimulate bone resorption and that SFs from patients with OA are more prone to enhance bone formation.

Upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and its activator MMP-3 of human osteoblast by uniaxial cyclic stimulation

Proper mechanical loading is essential for bone remodeling and maintenance of human skeletal system. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are secreted by mesenchymal stromal lining cells and osteoblasts to prepare the initiation sites for osteoclastic bone resorption at the beginning of the remodeling cycle. However, only a few studies have addressed the effect of mechanical stress on MMPs and their endogenous tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in osteoblasts. In this study, the response of human osteoblasts to uniaxial cyclic stretching was investigated to clarify this more in detail. Stretching affected the orientation of the osteoblasts, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction revealed coordinated upregulation of MMP-1 and its activator MMP-3 mRNA by cyclic 5% stretching at 3 h (p < 0.01). Upregulation of cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA was also found in response to cyclic 1 and 5% stretchings at 1, 3, and 6 h (p < 0.01). No changes were found in MMP-2, TIMP-1, and -2. The mRNA expression of MMP-9 was low and MMP-13 was not detected. This study suggests that MMP-1 and -3, enhanced by uniaxial cyclic mechanical stimulation of osteoblasts, are candidate key enzymes in the processing of collagen on bone surface, which might be necessary to allow osteoclastic recruitment leading to bone resorption. The strain might also play a role in cleaning of demineralized bone surface during the reversal phase, before bone formation starts.

Toll-like receptors in the interface membrane around loosening total hip replacement implants

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have been known to act as sensors of innate immunity and respond to ligands of microbial and endogenous components. Tissues and cells typical for interface membrane of foreign body reaction were analyzed to evaluate potential role of TLRs in the pathogenesis of the so called "aseptic loosening of total hip replacement." Fourteen cases of interface membrane around aseptic loose total hip replacement implants were stained by single and double immunohistochemical methods to examine cellular localization of toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 and TLR-9. Osteoarthritic synovium was used as control tissues. Cultured macrophages were used to study TLR-4 and TLR-9 mRNA levels by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The effect of titanium particle stimulation on macrophages was also examined in the culture. Extensive immunolocalization of TLR-4 and TLR-9 positive cells was observed in the synovial membrane-like interface membrane of foreign body granulomas compared with control synovial membranes. TLR and CD68 double staining demonstrated that the TLR positive cells in aseptic loosening were mostly monocyte/macrophages and foreign body giant cells. TLR-4 and TLR-9 mRNA expression was also found in macrophage-colony stimulating factor treated rat macrophages, but this expression decreased (p < 0.05 or less) upon stimulation with titanium particles although matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 mRNA levels used as macrophage activation marker were increased (p = 0.01). The interface membrane around loosening total hip replacement implants is apparently well equipped with TLRs and, thus, probably very sensitive to various structural components of microbes and to endogenous TLR ligands. This seems to be due to recruitment of monocyte/macrophages as particles per se seemed to down-regulate some of the key TLRs. This suppression after particle phagocytosis might prevent excessive and harmful host responses, and injury to innocent bystander cells/tissues.

The role played by cell-substrate interactions in the pathogenesis of osteoclast-mediated peri-implant osteolysis

Prosthetic wear debris-induced peri-implant osteolysis is a major cause of aseptic loosening after total joint replacement. In this condition, wear particles released from the implant components induce a granulomatous inflammatory reaction at the interface between implant and adjacent bone, leading to progressive bone resorption and loss of fixation. The present study was undertaken to characterize definitively the phenotype of osteoclast-like cells associated with regions of peri-implant focal bone resorption and to compare the phenotypic features of these cells with those of mononucleated and multinucleated cells associated with polyethylene wear particles. Peri-implant tissues were obtained from patients undergoing hip revision surgery for aseptic loosening after total joint replacement. Cells were examined for the expression of several markers associated with the osteoclast phenotype using immunohistochemistry, histochemistry, and/or in situ hybridization. CD68 protein, a marker expressed by multiple macrophage lineage cell types, was detected in mononucleated and multinucleated cells associated with polyethylene particles and the bone surface. Cathepsin K and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase were expressed highly in both mononucleated and multinucleated cells associated with the bone surface. Levels of expression were much lower in cells associated with polyethylene particles. High levels of β₃ integrin protein were detected in cells in contact with bone. Multinucleated cells associated with polyethylene particles exhibited faint positive staining. Calcitonin receptor mRNA expression was detected solely in multinucleated cells present in resorption lacunae on the bone surface and was absent in cells associated with polyethylene particles. Our findings provide further evidence that cells expressing the full repertoire of osteoclast phenotypic markers are involved in the pathogenesis of peri-implant osteolysis after total joint replacement. They also demonstrate that foreign body giant cells, although believed to be phenotypically and functionally distinct from osteoclasts, express many osteoclast-associated genes and gene products. However, the levels and patterns of expression of these genes in the two cell types differ. We speculate that, in addition to the role of cytokines and growth factors, the substrate with which these cells interact plays a critical role in their differential phenotypic and functional properties.

MR Imaging of Hip Infection and Inflammation

With its superior anatomical resolution and high sensitivity in depicting pathological processes of the joint, bone marrow and surrounding soft tissue structures, MR imaging is the ideal modality for demonstrating the manifestations and sequelae of the infective and inflammatory conditions common to the hip. Though the imaging features of these conditions may overlap, combining the clinical history and results and other imaging modalities yields a higher degree of specificity, ultimately enhancing the confidence of the radiological interpretation.

Clinical Outcome of Salmon Calcitonin Nasal Spray Treatment in Postmenopausal Women after Total Hip Arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

The increasing rate of hip fractures is giving rise to a number of socio-economic problems for the aging community. In addition to being unable to resume their previous living habits, many patients fail to achieve full functional recovery after the fractures. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a successful operation for the majority of patients with all forms of hip fractures, being performed increasingly often throughout the world. Revision rates for THA range up to 20% per year. Aseptic loosening is the reason for 75% of the revisions. An additional problem post-THA is the rate of heterotopic soft tissue calcification after THA, resulting in severely impaired function, pain, and a reduced range of hip movement.

SUBJECTS

In an open study, 37 women who had undergone cementless THA after accidental hip fractures were treated twice daily with 200 IU of salmon calcitonin nasal spray for 12 months. Simultaneously the patients received one bag of 1,000 mg calcium plus 880 IU vitamin D daily throughout the treatment period of 1 year. A parallel group of 38 women with a similar clinical status in terms of hip fractures and cementless THA were treated with only one bag of 1,000 mg calcium plus 880 IU vitamin D daily through the treatment period.

RESULTS

The results of this 12-month clinical trial show that 200 IU of salmon calcitonin nasal spray per day significantly improves the clinical outcome of postmenopausal elderly women following THA. Treatment with a salmon calcitonin nasal spray significantly reduces bone turnover, loss of bone density, and pain. The functional status of the patients was improved and the risk of falling reduced by rehabilitation during the observation period of 12 months. Additionally, calcitonin promoted the repair of hip fractures and was associated with a significantly lesser rate of refractures as well as periprosthetic ossifications.

CONCLUSION

The increasing revision rate for THA during the first year and the patient's problem of resuming their previous living habits are the main foci of our study. Calcitonin nasal spray seems to cause few side effects. The additive treatment appears to improve the clinical outcome of THA in elderly postmenopausal women.

Plasma levels of platelet-derived growth factor BB and transforming growth factor in patients with failed hip prostheses

BACKGROUND

The role of growth factors in prosthesis loosening is unclear. We evaluated the levels of platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB), transforming growth factors beta1 (TGF-beta1) and beta2 (TGF-beta2), both before and after activation, in patients with aseptic loosening of their hip prosthesis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

26 patients with loosened hip implants were compared with 21 patients who had stable hip prostheses, and 28 patients undergoing primary hip replacement. The plasma levels of the growth factors were analyzed by enzyme immunoassay. TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2 were determined both before and after activation.

RESULTS

Patients with aseptic loosening had significantly lower PDGF-BB levels than patients undergoing primary hip replacement, and significantly lower TGF-beta2 levels than patients with a stable implant. Patients with stable prostheses had significantly higher TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2 levels than patients undergoing primary hip replacement.

INTERPRETATION

It is possible that the prosthetic implant itself causes a local increase in PDGF-BB, TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2, released by osteoblasts and other cells in the microenvironment. The plasma PDGF-BB measured does not correspond to local release, which is probably due to local consumption or degradation. The consumption of PDGF-BB is low in stable implants, and TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2 levels increase during bone formation. In loosening, PDGF-BB consumption is higher and causes a significant reduction in plasma levels as compared to presurgery. The formation of poor-quality bone may be related to the scarce increase in TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2. In conclusion, compared with patients with a stable implant, a reduction in bone-forming growth factors appears to occur in individuals with aseptic loosening.

Pseudosynovial fluid from loosened total hip prosthesis induces osteoclast formation

Interface tissue between the bone and loosening total hip implant is acidic and highly osteolytic. It is characterized by the formation of cathepsin K positive foreign body giant cells. Similar structures to those found in the normal joint surround the artificial hip joint. Cells in synovial membrane of the artificial hip generate synovial fluid that is called pseudosynovial fluid. Interface tissue fibroblasts are able to produce receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL), which can induce osteoclastogenesis during the loosening process. Western blot analysis indicated that RANKL is present in the pseudosynovial fluid. Pseudosynovial fluid induced cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells to form multinuclear TRAP positive giant cells. In the presence of osteoprotegerin, the soluble RANKL decoy receptor, the number of TRAP positive multinuclear cells was reduced to half (p < 0.05). The multinuclear cells induced with pseudosynovial fluid contained active cathepsin K protein and were capable of bone matrix resorption in vitro. The cells were shown to express osteoclast phenotype markers, such as mRNA for cathepsin K, TRAP, and calcitonin receptor. It is therefore apparent that pseudosynovial fluid from patients with aseptic loosening of total hip prosthesis contains a potent osteoclastogenic factor RANKL that further suggests a favorable environment for osteoclast formation in the peri-implant tissues. It is thus concluded that suppression of RANKL activity may be beneficial in terms of increasing the lifetime of total hip prostheses.

Osteoclastic bone resorption around intraosseous screws in rat and pig mandibles

This report describes osteoclastic bone resorption around intraosseous fixation screws in rat and pig mandibles. These screws supported distraction devices and provided for neutral fixation following the distraction period. Progressive clinical instability of bicortical screws and radiographic and histologic evidence of osseous resorption were frequent findings. In rats, clinical evaluation revealed screw loss and/or loosening in 50% of the rats between 11 and 30 days of neutral fixation. Radiographic signs of resorption were apparent around 60% of the screws that were in place at the end of the observation period. The total rate of resorption or loss was 64 of 80 screws (80%). Histologic examination showed partial or extensive osteolysis around the screw holes in 87% of screws that were clinically fixed in the bone at sacrifice. In histologic sections of porcine specimens, osseous resorption around identifiable screw holes was present in 75% of the cases, and showed progressive increase in resorption with time. Osteoclastic resorption was common around bicortical screws that were evaluated after they had served for osseous stability.

Bone mineral density and biochemical markers of bone turnover in aseptic loosening after total hip arthroplasty

The aims of this study were to determine whether subjects with aseptic loosening after total hip arthroplasty (THA) have regional differences in periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) and systemic biochemical markers of bone turnover compared to subjects with successful implants.Proximal femoral and pelvic BMD were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and bone turnover markers were assayed in 49 subjects 12.6+/-4.3 (mean+/-SD) years after cemented THA. Femoral BMD was lower in Gruen zones 2, 5, 6, and 7 in subjects with a loose femoral implant (n=17) compared to those (n=32) with fixed femoral implants (P<0.05 all comparisons). This BMD difference was greatest (-31%, P=0.02) in the proximal and medial region of the femur. Subjects with femoral loosening had higher levels of the bone resorption marker N-telopeptides of type-I collagen (P=0.02) than those with a fixed femoral implant. No differences in pelvic BMD or bone turnover markers were found between subjects with loose (n=18) versus fixed (n=31) pelvic implants. This study suggests that failure of femoral components after cemented THA is associated with region-specific decreases in BMD and an increase in urinary excretion of N-telopeptide cross-links of type-I collagen. These surrogate outcome markers may be of value in monitoring response to antiresorptive therapies used to treat periprosthetic osteolysis, although the diagnosis of aseptic loosening remains clinical and radiological.

Prosthetic particles modify the expression of bone-related proteins by human osteoblastic cells in vitro

Loss of bone near joint prostheses is thought to be caused by activation of recruited osteoclasts by osteolytic mediators induced by wear particles. It is proposed that particles inhibit osteogenesis during bone remodelling causing a reduction in the levels of peri-implant bone. This study explores whether prosthetic particles modulate bone formation by affecting osteoblastic bone-related mRNAs (alkaline phosphatase, pro-collagen Ialpha1, osteopontin, osteonectin, osteocalcin, bone sialoprotein and thrombospondin) or their translated proteins using titanium alloy, commercially pure titanium, and cobalt-chrome particles. The direct effect of the particles revealed no change to the expression of the bone-related mRNAs in human bone-derived cells (HBDC) at the time points investigated; although non-collagenous translated proteins expressed by these HBDC were significantly effected (p<0.05). Different patterns of expression for bone-related proteins were induced by the different particles both directly and indirectly. Inflammatory mediators (interleukin-1beta, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, and prostaglandin E2) had similar effects on HBDC to the media obtained from monocytes incubated with particles. This study shows that prosthetic wear particles can significantly modify the expression of bone-related proteins by osteogenic cells in vitro. These alterations in osteogenic activity at the interface of the implant and bone may be an important factor in the failure of many orthopaedic implants.

Particle disease. A comprehensive theory of periprosthetic osteolysis: a review

Aseptic loosening and osteolysis are considered the main long-term problems of hip arthroplasty. Pathogenesis of periprosthetic osteolysis is multifactorial, and both the biological and mechanical factors seem to play an important role. Bearing surfaces continuously generate excessive amounts of micron and submicron particles provoking an adverse inflammatory response of periprosthetic connective tissues. In general, a key role has been attributed to macrophages. Cytokines, growth factors, PGE2, and enzymes are secreted with activated periprosthetic cells resulting in formation of osteolytic granulomas. The final osteolytic step is taken predominantly by osteoclasts which are getting ready for action mainly by an osteoprotegerin ligand (RANKL) and TNFalpha. Rankl is expressed by activated macrophages, osteoblasts, and lymphocytes. In parallel, a repetitive hydraulic effect of the joint fluid is manifested on the susceptible bone.

Bone turnover markers and cytokines in joint fluid: analyses in 10 patients with loose hip prosthesis and 39 with coxarthrosis

We analyzed bone turnover markers (osteocalcin, bone ALP, beta-crosslaps-CTX) and cytokines (IL-1, IL-8 and IL-10) in hip joint fluid in 10 patients before revision surgery and in 39 with idiopathic coxarthrosis. Patients with loose implants had lower concentrations of resorption marker than those with arthrosis (0.8 vs 1.3 ng/mL), but bone formation marker osteocalcin was reduced (4.2 vs 22.6 ng/mL). IL-8 and IL-10 levels were elevated in patients with implant failure (870 vs 340 pg/mL; 14.3 vs 4.0 pg/mL). We found a negative correlation between the bone resorption marker (CTX) and IL-10 in cases with prosthesis loosening and a positive correlation between IL-10 and time-to-revision. We conclude that enhanced local production of inflammatory cytokines leading to suppressed bone formation is a part of the loosening process. The expression of anti-inflammatory mediators is not sufficient to counteract the imbalance in bone turnover.

Osteoprotegerin inhibits in vitro mouse osteoclast formation induced by joint fluid from failed total hip arthroplasty

Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a key regulator of osteoclastogenesis. We investigated the presence of OPG and bone-resorbing cytokines, the potential of osteoclastic differentiation in joint fluid from failed total hip arthroplasty (THA), and the inhibitory effect of OPG on osteoclast formation in vitro induced by the joint fluid. The study was aimed to clarify one important step in the cascade of periprosthetic osteolysis in the process of implant loosening. OPG levels in failed THA joint fluid of 20 cases were significantly lower than osteoarthritis (OA) joint fluid of 15 cases (p < 0.001). The levels of bone-resorbing cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1beta, and IL-6 were significantly higher in failed THA joint fluid than OA fluid (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). Marked osteoclast formation was observed in the presence of failed THA joint fluid in the mouse coculture system, when compared to OA fluid (p < 0.001). The addition of 100 ng/mL OPG to the mouse coculture system completely inhibited osteoclast formation in the presence of failed THA joint fluid (p < 0.001). The data suggest that low levels of OPG combined with higher IL-1beta and IL-6 levels represent the potential of osteoclast differentiation and its activation in failed THA joint fluid. Inhibition of osteoclastogenesis in vitro by OPG suggests that a low level of OPG with elevated bone resorbing cytokines contributes to periprosthetic osteolysis via osteolytic joint fluid, thus leading to THA prosthesis loosening.

Acid attack and cathepsin K in bone resorption around total hip replacement prosthesis

Normal bone remodeling and pathological bone destruction have been considered to be osteoclast-driven. Osteoclasts are able to attach to bare bone surface and produce an acidic subcellular space. This leads to acid dissolution of hydroxyapatite, allowing cathepsin K to degrade the organic type I collagen-rich osteoid matrix under the acidic condition prevailing in Howship lacunae. Using a sting pH electrode, the interface membrane around a loosened total hip replacement prosthesis was found to be acidic. Confocal laser scanning disclosed irregular demineralization of the bone surface in contact with the acidic interface. Cathepsin K, an acidic collagenolytic enzyme, was found in interface tissue macrophages/giant cells and pseudosynovial fluid. Tissue extracts contained high levels of cathepsin K messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein. These observations suggest the presence of an acid- and cathepsin K-driven pathological mechanism of bone resorption, mediated not by osteoclasts in subosteoclastic space, but rather by the uncontrolled activity of macrophages in extracellular space.