Foreign Body Reaction to Artelon Spacer: Case Report

Delayed Foreign-body Reaction to Absorbable Implants in Metacarpal Fracture Treatment

“…Recently, two cases of a severe foreign-body reaction requiring implant removal were observed with a bioabsorbable spacer used for treating thumb basal arthritis [9,15]. In one case, the inflammation recurred and was attributed to residual microfragments, which required a second débridement [9].…”

Trapeziometacarpal joint arthritis

“…While initial results were promising [51], many recent case reports have demonstrated foreign body reactions to the synthetic spacer [52][53][54][55][56]. Currently, the short-term rate of adverse events following Artelon arthroplasty appears high, and further study is necessary to determine its indications [57].…”

Use of Artelon^® Cosmetic in soft tissue augmentation in dentistry

“…21 The manufacturer claims that Artelon material has excellent biocompatibility, but complications have been reported. [22][23][24] Persistent pain was reported after thumb carpometacarpal joint arthroplasty performed using an Artelon implant, and required removal of the Artelon implant and trapeziectomy to achieve subsequent symptomatic relief. 22 A foreign body-type reaction associated with Artelon was seen histologically.…”

“…22 There was one case in which a patient had sustained painful synovitis after implantation of the Artelon spacer in the scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal joint, which resolved clinically on removal of the implant. 24 Pathology specimens of soft tissue, synovium, and bone have also demonstrated a vigorous granulomatous foreign body giant cell reaction to the implant material. Patients should be made aware of the potential of the Artelon spacer to cause a foreign body reaction, that may necessitate reoperation for removal of the implant.…”

“…Patients should be made aware of the potential of the Artelon spacer to cause a foreign body reaction, that may necessitate reoperation for removal of the implant. 24 However, of six implants removed because of swelling and pain, five of the patients involved did not receive antibiotics preoperatively according to the protocol. 25 Swelling and warmth were noted when the Artelon scaffold was used for regeneration of the dermis, and low-grade inflammation with minor turbid secretion and itching were also noted.…”