Abstract
Publisher Summary Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) components for total joint replacement (TJR) are packaged and sterilized before the external distribution to the clinic. The choice of packaging and sterilization method falls within the purview of the implant designer. Although the implant designer is responsible for selecting the packaging and sterilization methods for a particular type of orthopedic component, the actual packaging and sterilization processes themselves may be amenable to outsourcing. A wide range of choices is currently available to the implant designer for packaging and sterilization of the UHMWPE implants. There are many types of barrier packaging currently in use by the orthopedic industry. The details about current packaging systems for orthopedic components are proprietary; however, it consists of evacuating the air from the packaging and backfilling with an inert gas. When sterilized using gamma radiation, UHMWPE components are contained in a barrier package with a reduced oxygen environment. Gas plasma and ethylene oxide-sterilized implants are packaged in gas-permeable packaging to allow access of the sterilizing medium to the UHMWPE surface.
Published Version
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