What Are Normal Metal Ion Levels After Total Hip Arthroplasty? A Serologic Analysis of Four Bearing Surfaces

Dual mobility cups reduce dislocation in isolated cup revision

BACKGROUND

Dual-mobility cup (DMC) is gaining increasing attention in total hip arthroplasty (THA) revision due to its numerous advantages. However, the prognosis after isolated cup revision with DMC remains unclear. This study aimed to compare complications, focusing on dislocation, and analyze clinical outcomes in patients who underwent isolated cup revision after THA.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 119 patients who underwent isolated cup revision after THA and were followed up for ≥ 2 years from January 2009 to February 2020. Patient demographics, including age, sex, surgical approach, reasons for previous joint replacement surgery, and postoperative complications, were investigated. The patients were divided into DMC and conventional cup (CC) groups, and operative data and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Clinical outcomes were compared using the Harris hip score.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients received DMC, and 70 received CC; the two groups had no difference in preoperative evaluation. Although the implants used significantly differed, there was no difference in the cup position. Six patients in the CC group had dislocations, but none had them in the DMC group (p = 0.042). Aseptic loosening was the most frequent postoperative complication but showed no significant difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

DMC in revision THA can prevent dislocation compared to CC. In particular, DMC is considered a good treatment option in isolated cup revision wherein the surgeon can control the limited options.

Outcomes of Dual Mobility Versus Fixed-Bearing Components in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Dual mobility (DM) implants have received increasing interest in revision surgery due to their increased stability. The aim of this systematic review was to compare outcomes of DM versus conventional fixed-bearing (FB) implants in revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA).

METHODS

A comprehensive search was performed using the PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE databases between January 2000 and 2023. Outcome measures included rerevision due to dislocation, rerevision for other causes, all-cause rerevision, total complication rate, and functional outcome measures. The Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies assessment tool was used to evaluate methodological quality and the risk of bias. A pooled meta-analysis was conducted, with an assessment of heterogeneity using the Chi-square and Higgins I2 tests. A further subgroup analysis was performed between DM implants and larger femoral head (> 36 mm) FB implants.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies met the final inclusion criteria, with an overall number of 5,004 rTHA hips included (2,108 DM and 2,896 FB). The DM implants had significantly lower odds of rerevision due to dislocation (odds ratio [OR] 0.38, P < 0.001), aseptic loosening (OR 0.54, P = 0.004), and all-cause rerevision (OR 0.55, P < 0.001) compared to FB implants. No statistically significant difference was seen in the odds of rerevision due to periprosthetic joint infection (OR 0.99, P = 0.94) or periprosthetic fracture (OR 0.59, P = 0.13) between the 2 groups. The total number of complications showed an odds benefit in favor of DM implants (OR 0.43, P < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis, there was no significant difference in the odds of rerevision due to dislocation (OR 0.69, P = 0.11) between DM and larger femoral head FB implants.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on current literature, it appears DM implants are an effective modality for reducing dislocation following rTHA with lower complication rates compared to FB implants. However, further prospective randomized controlled trials with longer term follow-up are required.

The potential carcinogenicity of orthopaedic implants - a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Every year, hundreds of thousands of patients receive an orthopaedic or dental implant containing metals such as cobalt, chromium and titanium. Since the European Chemicals Agency (2020) classified pure cobalt metal as a Category 1B carcinogen, manufacturers of products containing ≥ 0.1% of this metal must perform a risk assessment and justify that there are no viable alternatives. The up-classification of cobalt metal to a carcinogen without good evidence that its use in implants is carcinogenic may cause unnecessary concern to the many patients who have, or may require such implants. Although in vitro and animal studies have shown such metals to be carcinogenic, human epidemiological studies have not been definitive. In addition, although many advances have been made in the past few decades with regard to the materials used in implant metals, no recent review of their carcinogenic effects have been published.

METHODS

This scoping review aims to summarise epidemiological studies conducted in recent years (from 2010 to present) to outline the carcinogenic effects of orthopaedic metal implants that have been published. This encompasses implants of different materials and surfaces, including metal, polyethylene and ceramic orthopaedic implants, cemented and cementless joint replacement surgeries, and surgical techniques such as resurfacing and total joint replacements that are currently in use and the potential carcinogenicity related to their use. Research papers with various study designs published in the English language were included. Studies were excluded if participants had a prior history of cancer before receiving orthopaedic implants and if they focused solely on the carcinogenicity of metals or materials not related to orthopaedic implants.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies, encompassing over 700,000 implant patients, were identified through PubMed and have been included in this review. In long term follow-up of up to 17.9 years, no increased risk of all-site cancer was seen in these patients. However, an increase in site-specific cancers, namely prostate, melanoma and haematological cancers have been identified. Specifically, an increase in prostate cancer was identified in three studies.

CONCLUSION

Based on the summarised evidence, there is no consistent evidence to show that patients with any type of orthopaedic implant has an increased risk of cancer, although slight (non-statistically significant) increases in prostate cancer was observed and this, in particular, deserves longer-term surveillance.

Does-dual mobility still offer improved stability in smaller cup sizes? A computer modelling comparison of stability with 22-mm versus 28-mm inner heads in dual-mobility versus single-bearing constructs

PURPOSE

Dislocation remains 1 of the leading causes of revision after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and there is clear evidence the dual-mobility (DM) is used more frequently to minimise this. But in smaller cups, whether the use of DM with smaller 22-mm heads imparts any increased stability compared to standard bearing is unknown; especially when those smaller cups now allow for large single-bearing (SB) heads.

METHODS

3 primary cup sizes (48 mm, 50 mm, 52 mm) were chosen a priori for modelling. Head sizes trialled for the standard bearing (SB) constructs group were 28-0 mm, 32-0 mm and 36-0 mm against neutral polyethylene liners. In the modular sub-hemispheric DM constructs the inner head sizes for the DM constructs were altered where appropriate (22-0 mm vs. 28-0 mm). Cup position, stem offset, and stem size were standardised.

RESULTS

Both DM constructs outperformed all SB constructs because of a statistically significant jump distance increase (p < 0.001). However, there was no difference in range of motion (ROM) or jump distances between the 22-mm and 28-mm DM inner heads.The ROM angle before impingement between the DM (with 22-mm or 28-mm heads) and SB (with different head sizes where appropriate) showed no statistically significant difference. However, DM constructs presented significantly larger jump distances than SB constructs for both provocative dislocation tests across all 3 cup sizes.Of interest, for 50-mm and 52-mm cup sizes (for which this particular DM construct design can accommodate both 22-mm and 28-mm inner heads), there were no differences in ROM or jump distance between 22-mm versus 28-mm inner heads.

CONCLUSIONS

In this computer-modelling study, DM constructs are advantageous over SB constructs for improving jump distances in clinically provocative positions, but not range of motion angles. Inner head diameter of DM has no effect on stability.

No Change in Serum Metal Ions Levels After Primary Total Hip Replacement With an Additively Manufactured Dual Mobility Acetabular Construct

Background

Modular junctions of mixed metals have been associated with fretting and corrosion, and in extreme circumstances, adverse local tissue reactions. Since modular dual mobility (MDM) hip constructs involve a titanium shell with a modular cobalt-chromium liner, the aim of this study was to evaluate serum metal ions at minimum 1 year following total hip arthroplasty (THA) in a cohort of patients with these types of implants.

Methods

A single surgeon enrolled 30 patients in a prospective study in which all patients were evaluated preoperatively with serum cobalt, chromium, and titanium metal ion levels. Patients underwent primary THA with an additively manufactured titanium acetabular shell, MDM cobalt-chromium liner, titanium cementless stem, and ceramic head. A “Four Quadrant Test” was used to ensure proper liner seating intraoperatively. At minimum 1 year following surgery, clinical and radiographic evaluation was conducted, and repeat metal ion levels were collected. Patient-reported outcome measures were collected preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

Twenty-five patients completed 1-year follow-up. All patients had normal metal ion levels for cobalt (<1 μg/L), chromium (<5 μg/L), and titanium (sensitivity test) preoperatively and postoperatively. Patient-reported outcome measures improved significantly after primary THA: Veterans RAND-12 Physical Component Score (31.05 to 45.02, P < .001), Visual Analogue Scale Pain score (70.68 to 7.77, P < .001), Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcomes Score, Joint Replacement (51.99 to 86.97, P < .001).

Conclusions

No significant elevation was detected in serum metal ion levels 16 months following THA using an additively manufactured titanium acetabular shell, a cobalt-chromium MDM liner, and titanium stem with a ceramic head.

Ceramic-on-polyethylene hip arthroplasty reduces the risk of postoperative periprosthetic joint infection

Metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) total hip arthroplasty (THA) prostheses are known to release metal debris. Basic science studies suggest that metal implants induce a pro-inflammatory response that ultimately chemoattracts leukocytes including macrophages and neutrophils to the surgical site. This raises concern of higher risk of infection with these prostheses through the "trojan horse" mechanism by which neutrophils and macrophages transport intracellular pathogens from a remote site. This study compared the infection occurrence between MoP and ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP) implants to determine if a higher infection rate in MoP is present. We reviewed a consecutive series of 6052 CoP and 4550 MoP primary THA patients from 2015 to 2019. The occurrence of periprosthetic joint infection at 2 years was defined according to the 2018 ICM definition. Statistical analysis consisted of descriptive statistics, univariate analysis, and regression modeling. When compared to CoP, MoP patients were older, included more females, had a higher body mass index, and more commonly affected by comorbidities according to Elixhauser's score. Total revisions were higher in the MoP group (3.19% vs. 2.41%) The absolute incidence of PJI was higher in MoP (2.40% vs. 1.64%). When we adjusted for confounding factors, MoP was found independently associated with a higher PJI risk. Despite MoP and CoP both being widely used for primary THA, we found a higher incidence of PJI in MoP patients. The association remained significant when controlled for possible confounders. We hypothesize that leukocyte recruitment to these implants may play a role and should be further investigated.

Minimum Five-Year Outcomes of Modular Dual Mobility in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Using a modular dual-mobility (MDM) bearing in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) has not been widely evaluated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical outcomes and survivorship following MDM bearings in primary THA.

METHODS

We used our registry database for patients with an MDM bearing on primary THA, performed by 6 surgeons through supine direct lateral or direct anterior approach. MDM bearings were used most often when impingement or subluxation was present intraoperatively despite proper component position. Another indication was a patient with planned activities who might be at a higher risk of instability postoperatively.

RESULTS

A total of 127 MDM bearings were used in primary THA in 119 patients. Mean follow-up was 6.77 years (range 5-8.9). Five hips were revised, none of which were due to MDM bearing failure. Preoperative Hip dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement, Veterans RAND/Short Form 12 Physical Health Score and Mental Health Score increased from 25.81 to 52.40 (P < .0001), 30.42 to 44.50 (P < .0001), and 36.21 to 52.70 (P < .0001) at latest completed survey follow-up, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This MDM bearing shows excellent functional outcomes at a minimum 5 years of follow-up with no bearing-related failures. It can be an excellent choice in primary THA specifically in females where the use of increased head size to prevent instability is not possible due to anatomical restrictions and liner thickness.

Do Modular Dual Mobility Cups Offer a Reliable Benefit? Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up of 102 Cups

BACKGROUND

Among various options suggested to prevent hip instability after total hip replacement, the MDM-tritanium (modular dual mobility) cup features a cobalt-chrome liner (CoCr) positioned in a titanium acetabular shell and matched with a mobile insert in highly cross-linked annealed X3 polyethylene. The purpose of this study aimed to confirm whether there was no significant release of ions (Co and Cr) or higher occurrence of dislocation or even cases of aseptic loosening of the cementless shell with the use of MDM-tritanium cups at minimum of 5-year follow-up.

METHODS

The clinical study was carried out on a homogeneous consecutive and nonselective series with 102 MDM cups (98 patients) implanted in 2 centers. This MDM-tritanium cup had been systematically used for surgical revisions (70% of cases) or for patients with major hip dysplasia or in elderly patients with poor bone quality. A biological assessment of ion releases has been performed in a specific cohort of 39 cases that had an internal ceramic head.

RESULTS

None of the following complications was observed: no case of immunoallergic event, no aseptic loosening, and the dislocation rate was 4.9% involving only the difficult primary and revision cases. The clinical results were encouraging, with 89.7 points for Harris Hip Score, 41.16 points/48 for the OHS-12. The Agora Roentgenographic Assessment (ARA) radiologic score was graded "excellent" in 94.4%. The MDM-tritanium survivorship with revision for any cause in 102 cups at 7.95 years was 92.7%.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of our first 102 cases, there were no immunoallergic complications-contrary to what was initially feared with the CoCr bearing-titanium pair-and no postoperative instability, including for complex primary and revisions total hip replacements.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Individual Cohort Study: 2B.

Serum Metal Ions in Contemporary Monoblock and Modular Dual Mobility Articulations

BACKGROUND

Questions exist about the release of cobalt and chromium ions from dual mobility (DM) cups. Modular implants, with potential backside wear between the cobalt-chromium liner and titanium cup, are of particular concern. This study compares the metal ion profile of patients with contemporary monoblock and modular DM articulations from two commonly used designs.

METHODS

Cobalt and chromium serum levels were measured one year after surgery in a prospective cohort of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty with a DM construct. Ion levels were detected above 1 μg/L. Clinical and surgical data were correlated with the ion levels for analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, 29% of the patients had levels above 1 μg/L of either ion. More patients with modular cups had detectable ions than patients with monoblock cups (39% vs 20%, P = .05). Cobalt was more commonly detected in the monoblock group, and chromium was more commonly detected in the modular group (P = .05). There were no differences in the actual ion levels between the groups (1.35 μg/L vs 1.64 μg/L, P = .44, for cobalt and 1.35 μg/L vs 1.31 μg/L, P = .77, for chromium). No patient underwent revision during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

We found similar cobalt and chromium levels in patients with monoblock and modular DM cups. More patients in the modular group had detectable ions. Cobalt was more frequently detected in the monoblock group. These results suggest that both implants are performing well in the short term, but further follow-up is needed to determine whether the differences found are of clinical significance.

Multi-elemental determination of metals, metalloids and rare earth element concentrations in whole blood from the Canadian Health Measures Survey, 2009-2011

BACKGROUND

As part of Government of Canada's Chemical Management Plan, substances containing aluminum (Al), bismuth (Bi), cerium (Ce), chromium (Cr), germanium (Ge), lanthanum (La), lithium (Li), neodymium (Nd), praseodymium (Pr), tellurium (Te), titanium (Ti) and yttrium (Y) were identified as priorities for risk assessment. Generating exposure estimates from all routes of exposure from multiple sources using a traditional approach for these elements can be challenging. The use of human biomonitoring (HBM) data would allow for direct and more precise assessment of the internal concentrations from all routes and all sources of exposure. There are no Canadian or North American population-level whole blood HBM data for the elements listed above. Therefore, this is the first biomonitoring project carried out to determine the concentrations of these elements from a nationally representative sample of Canadians.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to generate whole blood concentrations for Al, Bi, Ce, Cr, Ge, La, Li. Nd, Pr, Te, Ti and Y in the Canadian population using biobank samples from the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) cycle 2 (2009-2011) for use in characterizing exposure in screening assessments and for establishing baseline concentrations to determine how exposures are changing over time.

METHODS

The sample analysis was conducted by ICP-MS. A rigorous quality control and quality assurance process was implemented in order to generate data with high accuracy and precision while measuring low concentrations and minimizing possible inadvertent contamination.

RESULTS

Of the elements analysed, the whole blood concentrations (μg/L) of Al, Ce, Cr, Ge, La, Nd, Pr, Te, Ti and Y in the Canadian population aged 3-79 years were below their respective method reporting limit (MRL). Two elements, Bi and Li were detected in 5 % and 66 % of the Canadian population. The median Li concentration was 0.47 μg/L.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study provide information on concentrations of these elements in the Canadian population which can be utilized to characterize exposure in screening assessments and there by the potential for harm to human health. In addition, this study provides baseline HBM data which can be used as a comparative HBM dataset for other populations with similar exposure patterns.

Fretting and corrosion of metal liners from modular dual mobility constructs : a retrieval analysis

AIMS

Dual mobility implants in total hip arthroplasty are designed to increase the functional head size, thus decreasing the potential for dislocation. Modular dual mobility (MDM) implants incorporate a metal liner (e.g. cobalt-chromium alloy) in a metal shell (e.g. titanium alloy), raising concern for mechanically assisted crevice corrosion at the modular liner-shell connection. We sought to examine fretting and corrosion on MDM liners, to analyze the corrosion products, and to examine histologically the periprosthetic tissues.

METHODS

A total of 60 retrieved liners were subjectively scored for fretting and corrosion. The corrosion products from the three most severely corroded implants were removed from the implant surface, imaged using scanning electron microscopy, and analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Fretting was present on 88% (53/60) of the retrieved liners, and corrosion was present on 97% (58/60). Fretting was most often found on the lip of the taper at the transition between the lip and the dome regions. Macrophages and particles reflecting an innate inflammatory reaction to corrosion debris were noted in six of the 48 cases for which periprosthetic tissues were examined, and all were associated with retrieved components that had high corrosion scores.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that corrosion occurs at the interface between MDM liners and shells and that it can be associated with reactions in the local tissues, suggesting continued concern that this problem may become clinically important with longer-term use of these implants. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1238-1246.

Clinical Concerns With Dual Mobility- Should I Avoid it When Possible?

The utilization of dual mobility (DM) articulations in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasing. The principal appeal of DM implants is its ability to reduce postoperative instability by maximizing the effective ball head size for each reconstruction. However, while DM implants have been used worldwide for over 3 decades, the experience in North America is more limited. Moreover, there remains concerns with intraprosthetic dissociation, wear, metallosis, and soft tissue impingement. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to review the available evidence for these potential issues. First, intraprosthetic dissociation (IPD) is a unique complication of DM implants. Although the rate has decreased with improvements in materials and design, the reported prevalence is approximately 1%. Second, wear in DM implants can be unpredictable and increased wear has been reported in younger, active patients. Third, corrosion in modular DM implants has been described and elevations in serum cobalt and chromium levels have been reported. While the clinical significance of these elevations is unclear, it remains a source of concern with these implants. Finally, psoas impingement and entrapment can be a source of persistent groin pain after THA. DM articulations are a valuable addition to the armamentarium of total hip surgeons. However, these bearings are not free of complications. Consequently, current data only support selective use of DM bearings in patients at increased risk for postoperative instability after arthroplasty.

Adverse reaction to metal debris due to fretting corrosion between the acetabular components of modular dual-mobility constructs in total hip replacement: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Modular dual-mobility (MDM) constructs can be used to reduce dislocation rates after total hip replacement (THR). However, there are concerns about adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) as a result of fretting corrosion between the metal liner and shell. This systematic review reports outcomes following THR using MDM components. It was registered with PROSPERO and conducted in line with Cochrane and PRISMA recommendations.Sixteen articles were included overall, with meta-analysis performed on relevant subsets using a random intercept logistic regression model. Estimated median incidence of ARMD requiring revision surgery within study follow-up period was 0.3% (95% CI 0.1 - 1.8%, from 11 cohort studies containing 1312 cases).Serum metal ion levels were mildly raised in 7.9% of cases, and significantly raised in 1.8%, but there was no correlation with worse clinical hip function scores within studies. Dislocation rate was 0.8%. Revision rate was 3.3%.There are mixed reports of wear on the backside of the metal liner from the acetabular shell and screw heads. Both implant design and component malseating are implicated, but currently it is unclear to what extent each factor is responsible.Studies were poor quality with high risk of confounding, especially from trunnion corrosion. We have made recommendations for further work. In the meantime, surgeons should be aware of the potential risk of ARMD when considering using an MDM prosthesis, and, if selecting one, must ensure proper seating of the liner and screws intraoperatively. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:343-353. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.200146.

[Tribology in hip arthroplasty : Benefits of different materials]

When it comes to total hip replacements, choosing the suitable material combination is of clinical relevance. The present review article examines the technical differences in wear and corrosion of the relevant material combinations of ceramics, metals, ceramized metals and various types of polyethylene. The material characteristics, which were often tested under standardized conditions in the laboratory, are compared with clinical results on the basis of evidence-graded clinical studies and on the basis of register studies. This article thus represents an up-to-date snapshot of the expectations and actual clinical outcomes of the present choice of material combinations. It shows that some tendencies from the field of materials research, e.g. with regard to cross-linked polyethylene, coincide with observations from practical clinical experience, while for other materials, a proven technical superiority has not yet been confirmed as an evident advantage in clinical practice.

Metal ion levels with use of modular dual mobility constructs: Can the evidence guide us on clinical use?

Introduction

Dual mobility (DM) use in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has increased, particularly for prevention and management of instability. However, a modular interface raises concern for metal ion generation. The purpose of this study was to determine the 1) serum cobalt and chromium levels; 2) prevalence of ion levels >1 mcg/L; and 3) effect of femoral head material on ion levels following THA using modular DM bearings.

Methods

We performed a systematic review (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane databases) for articles relating to metal ion levels and modular DM (MDM) THA. Eight studies (290 patients) met the inclusion criteria. We recorded post-operative ion levels at a minimum of 12 months, and compared levels with ceramic (n = 125) and metal femoral heads (n = 165). A meta-analysis could not be performed due to poor study quality and heterogeneity.

Results

At average follow-up of 30.4 months, mean cobalt level was 0.71 mcg/L, and mean chromium level was 0.66 mcg/L [22 patients (8%) had elevated ion levels above 1 mcg/L]. When compared to MDM with a ceramic head, metal head use had higher cobalt (1.26 vs. 0.42 mcg/L) and chromium levels (1.23 vs. 0.46 mcg/L). MDM with a metal head was 1.30 times more likely to have elevated ion levels >1 mcg/L. There was no effect of ion levels on outcome scores.

Conclusions

Measurable elevations of serum cobalt and chromium levels are present in patients with well-functioning MDM THAs. The impact and contributions of the additional metal liner interface are still unclear. The use of a ceramic head appears to mitigate ion release, while reducing other mechanisms of metallosis like taper corrosion. Higher quality studies are necessary to understand whether MDM bearings pose long term issues. Until then, the judicious use of MDM articulations is recommended.

No radiological and biological sign of trunnionosis with Large Diameter Head Ceramic Bearing Total Hip Arthroplasty after 5 years

BACKGROUND

Trunnionosis of large diameter (LDH) metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty (THA) was linked to high systemic chromium (Cr) and cobalt (Co) ion levels and local adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD). The safety of CoC LDH THA is not yet available at mid-term. Measuring whole blood Ti level of ceramic on ceramic (CoC) LDH THA with a titanium (Ti) stem is an indirect way to assess the performance of its head-neck taper modular junction. Therefore, we wanted to determine: (1) if the whole blood Ti ion levels in patients with LDH CoC THA after a minimum of 5 years of implantation is within the expected values for similar well performing Ti THA, (2) if Ti level scientifically increases over time, which would suggest the presence of a progressive modular head/neck junction wear process, (3) if clinical or radiographical manifestations of implant dysfunction are present?

HYPOTHESIS

Ti blood levels of LDH CoC THA will indirectly reflect the expected levels due to passive corrosion of the implants and will be stable over time.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We report the whole blood Ti, Cr, and Co levels at 5years minimum for 57 patients with unilateral primary LDH CoC THA with head sizes ranging from 36 to 48mm using Ti stem and acetabular component. To compare Ti ion levels modification over time, in 25 patients were a previous measurement (1-3years) was available, we compared it to their last follow-up results (>5 years). Mean Ti level in well performing Ti THAs is recognized to be around 2.0 ug/L. Although, there are no universally accepted Ti levels associated with problematic implant, we used safety threshold of 10 ug/L. Clinical and radiological outcomes were recorded at last follow-up.

RESULTS

At 79 months mean follow-up, all mean Ti levels were 1.9μg/L (min 1.2, max 4.4) and all subject had values below the safety threshold of 10ug/L. In the subgroup of 25 cases with a previous measurement, there was a decrease in mean Ti levels between 20 months and 78 months follow-up (2.2μg/L (1.6-3.9) versus 2.0μg/L (1.4-2.8), p=0.007). No statistically significant relation was observed between Ti level at last FU and bearing diameter (rho=0.046, p=0.0734) or the presence or absence of a Ti adaptor sleeve (p=0.454): 1.94ug/L (min 1.20, max 2.80) versus 1.90ug/L (min 1.20, max 4.40). At last follow up, no patients presented osteolysis signs on radiographs, clinical signs of ARMD or were reoperated. Most patients had excellent clinical with 98% of them reporting minor (29%) or no functional limitation (69%) and 44% perceive their THA as a natural hip joint. However, 3/57patients (5%) temporarily experienced hip squeaking and 18/57 (31%) reported clicking sound.

CONCLUSION

With the tested LDH CoC THA, Ti levels were low and related the uneventful and unavoidable passive corrosion of implant surfaces. Mid-term measurement of Ti in subjects with LDH CoC did not reveal any indirect signs of trunnionosis, which should already be observable by this time.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective study.

Metal Ion Release, Clinical and Radiological Outcomes in Large Diameter Metal-on-Metal Total Hip Arthroplasty at Long-Term Follow-Up

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) with metal-on-metal (MoM) bearings have shown problems of biocompatibility linked to metal ion release at the local level causing an adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) and at a systemic level. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes, and metal ion concentrations in the blood and urine of patients who underwent THA with the LIMA Met-Met hip system. Patients with ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearings were included as a control group. In this study, 68 patients were enrolled: 34 with MoM THAs and 34 with CoC THAs. Patients were evaluated clinically (Harris Hip Score, SF-36) and radiologically at a median of 7.4 years after surgery. Whole blood and urinary cobalt and chromium levels were also assessed. Both types of implants were comparable in terms of clinical and functional results. Ion levels were significantly higher in the MoM group compared with CoC group 7 years after surgery. No correlations were found between metal ion levels and patient demographics, functional and radiological outcomes, and prosthesis features. Patient monitoring is thus advised to establish if prosthesis revision is necessary, especially in the case of MoM THA.

Interchangeable neck failures of bi-modular femoral stems in primary total hip arthroplasty cannot be predicted from serum trace element analysis

INTRODUCTION

Revision of a well-fixed stem due to unexpected modular neck fracture is a catastrophe for the patient and a challenge for the surgeon. This study aimed to test the possibility of predicting interchangeable neck fracture from serum levels of the stem/neck alloy-consisting metals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nineteen patients at high risk for interchangeable neck fracture were randomly selected out of a cohort of 680 bimodular stems made from Ti6Al4V alloy. Serum levels of titanium, aluminium and vanadium were determined. Nine age- and gender-matched patients were used as controls.

RESULTS

Mean serum levels of Ti were 6.04 ± 2.52 μg/L, of Al 3.89 ± 1.68 μg/L and of V 0.07 ± 0.04 μg/L in the high-risk group, and 8.22 ± 4.74 μg/L, 4.99 ± 3.98 μg/L and 0.27 ± 0.44 μg/L in the low-risk group, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups.

DISCUSSION

Interchangeable neck fracture of bimodular femoral stems cannot be predicted from serum trace element analysis.

Serum metal ion levels in modular dual mobility acetabular components: A systematic review

Background

Dual mobility (DM) constructs effectively reduce the risk of dislocation in revision and high risk primary total hip arthroplasty. However, modular DM designs require the use of a cobalt-chrome liner against a titanium cup which may induce corrosion, metal ions release, and associated biologic response. The purpose of this systematic review study was to collect all reported cases of serum metal ions after DM in the literature and ask the following questions: 1) what is the overall rate of significantly elevated Cobalt and Chromium metal ions and how do these levels change over time? 2) Does femoral head material composition influence serum metal ion levels? and 3) were there any atypical lymphocytic associated lesions after modular DM that required revision surgery?

Methods

A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. In addition to patient demographics, information specific to the performance of the DM implant were recorded including: cobalt and chromium serum ion levels and all reported timepoints, the material composition of the femoral head, all revision and reoperations and any failure related to corrosion of the DM bearing. A significant elevation in cobalt or chromium was defined as >1.0 or >1.6 mcg/L.

Results

248 modular DM THAs were analyzed. The cumulative mean cobalt and chromium levels for all included studies was 0.47mcg/L and 0.53mcg/L, respectively. At final follow-up 13 patients (5.2%) had elevated cobalt ion levels and 4 patients (1.6%) had elevated chromium ion levels. Femoral head material composition trended towards but did not significantly increase serum ion levels. Ceramic heads had elevated cobalt and chromium ions in 4/135 (3%) of patients compared to metal heads which had elevated cobalt ions in 9/113 (8%) and elevated chromium ions in 0/113 (0%), (p = 0.09). There were no reoperations or revisions for metal related reactions at final follow-up (mean 27.4 months).

Conclusion

In this systematic review including 248 modular DM THAs, elevated serum cobalt ions were present in 5.2% of patients at a mean follow-up of 27.4 months. While a trend towards increased Cobalt serum ions with the use of cobalt chrome femoral heads, femoral head composition was not significantly associated with increased serum metal ion levels. At final follow-up, metal ion levels appear to decrease in the majority of patients between 1 and 2 years and no patient was revised for metal ion related complications. Continued serum metal ion surveillance is recommended to ensure the safety of DM constructs in THA with longer term follow-up.

What Surgeons Need to Know About Adverse Local Tissue Reaction in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Adverse local tissue reactions (ALTRs) were first associated with patients with failed metal-on-metal surface replacements and total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, an increasing number of cases of ALTR in metal-on-polyethylene (MOP) THA patients is being reported. Clinically, ALTR appears as benign, aseptic masses or bursae in the periprosthetic tissues. Histopathologically, ALTRs are distinguished by an intense lymphocyte infiltrate, destruction of the synovial surfaces, widespread necrosis, and fibrin exudate. Tribocorrosion of modular junctions appears to be the cause of ALTR in MOP patients. The various tribocorrosion damage modes occurring at modular junctions produce metal ions and a diversity of particulates in relation to size, chemical composition, and structure. The mechanisms by which these various products of tribocorrosion lead to ALTR are still a matter of considerable research. This review clarifies what constitutes ALTR, its relationship to implant factors, and highlights current methods for diagnosis and management of patients with ALTR in the setting of MOP THA.

Serum cobalt concentrations remain at low levels at a minimum of 20 years following metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty

AIMS

Second-generation metal-on-metal (MoM) articulations in total hip arthroplasty (THA) were introduced in order to reduce wear-related complications. The current study reports on the serum cobalt levels and the clinical outcome at a minimum of 20 years following THA with a MoM (Metasul) or a ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP) bearing.

METHODS

The present study provides an update of a previously published prospective randomized controlled study, evaluating the serum cobalt levels of a consecutive cohort of 100 patients following THA with a MoM or a CoP articulation. A total of 31 patients were available for clinical and radiological follow-up examination. After exclusion of 11 patients because of other cobalt-containing implants, 20 patients (MoM (n = 11); CoP (n = 9)) with a mean age of 69 years (42 to 97) were analyzed. Serum cobalt levels were compared to serum cobalt levels five years out of surgery.

RESULTS

The median cobalt concentration in the MoM group was 1.04 μg/l (interquartile range (IQR) 0.64 to 1.70) at a mean of 21 years (20 to 24) postoperatively and these values were similar (p = 0.799) to cobalt levels at five years. In the CoP control group, the median cobalt levels were below the detection limit (< 0.3 μg/l; median 0.15 μg/l, IQR 0.15 to 0.75) at 20 years. The mean Harris Hip Score was 91.4 points (61 to 100) in the MoM group and 92.8 points (63 to 100) in the CoP group.

CONCLUSION

This study represents the longest follow-up series evaluating the serum cobalt levels after 28 mm head MoM bearing THA and shows that serum cobalt concentrations remain at low levels at a mean of 21 years (20 to 24) after implantation.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res. 2020;9(3):145-150.

Uniformly low serum cobalt levels after modular dual-mobility total hip arthroplasties with ceramic heads: a prospective study in high-risk patients

AIMS

Modular dual-mobility constructs reduce the risk of dislocation after revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, questions about metal ions from the cobalt-chromium (CoCr) liner persist, and are particularly germane to patients being revised for adverse local tissue reactions (ALTR) to metal. We determined the early- to mid-term serum Co and Cr levels after modular dual-mobility components were used in revision and complex primary THAs, and specifically included patients revised for ALTR.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Serum Co and Cr levels were measured prospectively in 24 patients with a modular dual-mobility construct and a ceramic femoral head. Patients with CoCr heads or contralateral THAs with CoCr heads were excluded. The mean age was 63 years (35 to 83), with 13 patients (54%) being female. The mean follow-up was four years (2 to 7). Indications for modular dual-mobility were prosthetic joint infection treated with two-stage exchange and subsequent reimplantation (n = 8), ALTR revision (n = 7), complex primary THA (n = 7), recurrent instability (n = 1), and periprosthetic femoral fracture (n = 1). The mean preoperative Co and Cr in patients revised for an ALTR were 29.7 μg/l (2 to 146) and 21.5 μg/l (1 to 113), respectively.

RESULTS

Mean Co and Cr levels were 0.30 μg/l and 0.76 μg/l, respectively, at the most recent follow-up. No patient had a Co level ≥ 1 μg/l. Only one patient had a Cr level ≥ 1 μg/l. That patient's Cr level was 12 μg/l at 57 months after revision THA for ALTR (and decreased ten-fold from a preoperative Cr of 113 μg/l).

CONCLUSION

At a mean of four years, no patient with a modular dual-mobility construct and ceramic femoral head had elevated Co levels, including seven patients revised specifically for ALTR. While further studies are required, we support the selective use of a modular dual-mobility construct in revision and complex primary THAs for patients at high risk for instability. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B(6 Supple B):57-61.

Intraosseous metal implants in orthopedics: A review

Metal implants are biomaterials widely used in orthopedics. They are both used in osteosynthesis and arthroplasty. Their mechanical properties, biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion make them a widely used option in orthopedics. Alloys are the most commonly used metals in orthopedics. As far as physical traumas are concerned, implants such as screws, plates and/or nails are used for osteosynthesis as they ensure the stability of the fractured area and contribute to bone healing. Prostheses are used in arthroplasty to restore joint function for as long as possible. Contact between bone and the prosthesis induces bone remodeling at the interface between metal and bone even if the metal is recognized as biocompatible. Upon time, the interface between the metal implant and the bony tissue is continuously modified and adapted. Hip prosthesis is a typical example of intraosseous metal implant whose bone/implant interface has been extensively studied. Metal can be altered in vivo by different mechanisms including corrosion and fretting. An altered torque friction leads to wear debris that accumulate in the peri-prosthetic tissues causing metallosis.

Dual mobility acetabular cups for total hip arthroplasty: advantages and drawbacks

INTRODUCTION

The dual mobility cup (DMC) concept was proposed by Professor Gilles Bousquet in 1974. Its' aims were to prevent postoperative dislocation, restore the physiological range of motion of the hip, and reduce the stresses at the interface. Since it was created, this design has been modified multiple times to reduce the complication rate, improve implant survival, and expand the indications.

AREAS COVERED

The objective of this review is to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this implant based on its 40-year history and also to propose a range of indications based on published results. This will provide surgeons with a complete overview of DMC.

EXPERT COMMENTARY

Published studies on DMC confirm the low dislocation rate. Improvements made to DMC overtime have greatly reduced the complications related to wear, such as aseptic loosening and intraprosthetic dislocation (IPD). According to the literature, the indications have expanded and are no longer limited to revision surgery only. Long-term studies are needed before we can draw formal conclusions and consolidate these promising results.