Increased corrosion of stainless steel implants in infected plated fractures

Abstract

Correlation has previously been observed between the incidence of metal hypersensitivity (Ni, Cr, Co) and the incidence of infection after internal fixation of bone fractures. As there is no doubt that exposure to high concentrations of metal can cause allergy, metal levels (Cr, Ni, Mo, Co) were analyzed in implant contact tissues by ASS. Both the absolute concentration of the ions and the Ni:Cr ratio in the tissues adjacent to metal implants is greater in infected cases than in non-infected. Thus infection as a cause of allergy has to be considered. In view of the resulting problems perhaps consideration could be given to the use of a different alloy for metal implants.

Materials in Fracture Fixation

“…While showing more resistance to infection than stainless steel, titanium implants are still susceptible to wound infections. 23,[37][38][39] Arising from these concerns, several common surface treatments are being developed to improve biocompatibility, osteoblast proliferation, and viability, and decrease susceptibility to bacterial adherence and colonization. Improvement of the surface wettability characteristics of stainless steel by CO 2 laser leads to improved cell proliferation regarding osteoblast adherence, spread, and rate of growth.…”

Allergy to Implant Components: Chromium, Nickel, Cobalt and Titanium

“…Moreover the microorganisms, which sticking to the implant may cause diseases. The presence of bacterias and biofilms on the implant surfaces changes the reactions of immunological system [1,8]. Many scientific works concerning corrosion and wearing out of metal implants have appeared.…”

Improved Biocompatibility of Titanium–Zirconium (Ti–Zr) Alloy: Tissue Reaction and Sensitization to Ti–Zr Alloy Compared with Pure Ti and Zr in Rat Implantation Study

“…However, fretting corrosion of metallic implants is sometimes observed in contact with biological systems, causing the release of metallic ions from the implants. 2,3) Elevated levels of metal ions have been found in blood, urine, and tissues of patients and animals that have received metal implants. [2][3][4][5][6] Metallic ions, such as nickel (Ni), Co, and Cr, are known to cause adverse tissue reactions and allergy.…”

“…2,3) Elevated levels of metal ions have been found in blood, urine, and tissues of patients and animals that have received metal implants. [2][3][4][5][6] Metallic ions, such as nickel (Ni), Co, and Cr, are known to cause adverse tissue reactions and allergy. [7][8][9][10][11][12][13] Titanium (Ti) and its alloys are currently considered the most attractive metallic materials for orthopedic and dental surgery.…”