July 14th, 2013 , J Shoulder Elbow Surg
Characterization of Wear in Debris in Total Elbow Arthroplasty
BACKGROUND:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate wear debris in periprosthetic tissues at the time ofrevision total elbow arthroplasty. Polyethylene, metallic, and bone cement debris were characterized, and the tissue response was quantified.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Capsular and medullary tissue samples were collected during revision surgery. Polyethylene debris was characterized by scanning electron microscopy after tissue digestion. The concentrations of metal and cement debris were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Tissue response was graded with a semiquantitative histologic method.
RESULTS:
Polyethylene particle size varied from the submicron range to over 100 mm. The mean diameter ranged from 0.6 mm to about 1 mm. Particles in the synovial tissues were larger and less abundant than those in tissues from the medullary canal. Cement, titanium alloy, and low levels of cobalt-chrome debris were also present, with cement predominating over metal debris. Histiocyte response was associated with small polyethylene particles (0.5-2 mm), and giant cells were associated with large polyethylene particles (>2 mm). Histiocyte scores positively correlated with the polyethylene particle number and the presence of metal.
DISCUSSION:
We have shown that periprosthetic tissues of total elbow patients who have undergone revision for loosening and osteolysis contain polyethylene, cement, and metal debris. Although the polyethylene particles were of a size and shape that have been previously shown to result in activation of phagocytic cells, osteolysis after total elbow arthroplasty is a multimodal process. Because of the presence of multiple wear particle sources, a cause-and-effect relationship between polyethylene debris and osteolysis cannot be established with certainty.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:
Basic Science Study, Histology. © 2013 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees.
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