A Quantitative Determination of Bone Growth into Porous Polyethylene.
Abstract
The purpose of this investigation was to study bone growth into porous polyethylene rods as a function of time and pore structure. Previous studies have indicated the biocompatibility of solid polyethylene materials which are currently being used clinically. Porous polyethylene rods were implanted in the femurs of mongrel dogs which were sacrificed 4, 8, and 16 weeks post operatively. The implants were then sectioned and examined histologically and microradiographically. No adverse tissue reaction was observed. Microscopic techniques were employed to determine the amount of bone ingrowth as a function of time and pore size. The pore structures of the materials were evaluated using optical microscopy, mercury intrusion porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy. Mechanical testing was performed on representative porous specimens. The results of this investigation have demonstrated that porous polyethylene is capable of accepting bone ingrowth and provides a potential means of attaching implant devices to the skeletal system. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 29, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0787573
Entities
People
- Allan M. Weinstein
- Barry W. Sauer
- Jerome J. Klawitter
- Joseph G. Bagwell
- Keith Greer
Organizations
- Clemson University