Generation of Different UHMWPE Particle Shape by Wear Through Surface Texturing

Published

April 1, 1999

Author(s)

H. W. Fang, M C. Shen, U Cho, John A. Tesk, A Christou, Stephen M. Hsu

Abstract

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) wear particles in replaced joints have been linked to biochemical reactions that eventually lead to loosening of prosthesis. Several studies have shown that UHMWPE produces a wide range of particle sizes and shapes under wearing conditions. Whether a particular size or a particular shape has higher bioactivity is not known. From surface energy consideration, small particles in the nm range should be more reactive. From a biological perspective, different shapes may induce different responses. This study aims to develop a method to produce narrowly distributed wear particle of different sizes and shapes so that subsequent study on bioactivity can be carried out. The concept is to use surface texture on the metal counterface to produce desired size and shape under carefully controlled rubbing conditions.

Citation

Society for Biomaterials

Pub Type

Journals

Keywords

(UHMWPE), debris, surface texture, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene

Citation

Fang, H. , Shen, M. , Cho, U. , Tesk, J. , Christou, A. and Hsu, S. (1999), Generation of Different UHMWPE Particle Shape by Wear Through Surface Texturing, Society for Biomaterials (Accessed July 27, 2025)