X-ray diffraction analysis of bone-cement interface in failed hip arthroplasties

This study was focused on the bone tissue response to cement in failed hip joint prostheses. The investigation was carried out by means of micro-beam X-ray diffractometric (XRD) analysis of the bone-cement interface. Nine cemented prostheses retrieved because of loosening were studied. This research has demonstrated that the newly formed bone close to the cement in loosened prostheses showed a normal apatitic structure, though bone tissue was often found poorly mineralized. In contrast, in stable prostheses well-mineralized bone was observed. In both cases, however, the bone apatite lattice at the interface was shown not to be different from pre-existing bone. The authors conclude that the mineralization process close to the cement can be thoroughly evaluated by micro-beam XRD techniques.