Abstract
Bio-medical implants release metallic elements during the long periods of time while inserted in the human body. The chemical interactions between the tissues and surface of the implants, and the mechanical friction of implants cause the release of metals into the human tissues. In this study we investigated the distribution and the chemical-state of the metallic elements in the tissues around a failed implant system using PIXE (proton induced x-ray emission) and SR-XRF (synchrotron radiation x-ray fluorescence) spectroscopies. The specimens were from the cases of patients with diagnosed arthritis. The implant consisted of a stem and a metal backing made of Ti -6 Al -4 V , an implant head made of stainless steel, and a polyethylene (PE) cup. Both the stem and the metal backing had a plasma-sprayed HAp surface coating. Distribution and concentration of dissolved elements in tissues surrounding implants were examined and quantified using PIXE analysis. Similar specimen from the same case was further investigated using SR-XRF analysis. Chemical-states of the dissolved elements ware also studied by XAFS (x-ray absorption fine structure) analysis. From results of these measurements, it is confirmed that the tissues surrounding implants contained metallic elements such as Fe , Cr , Ni , and Ti . These elements are originated from the implant. Furthermore, it was made clear that the chemical-state of Fe had changed as a consequence of dissolution of Fe in the organic tissues.
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