Abstract
Aim
Adverse tissue reactions have been a concern in relation to metal components, particularly in hip replacements. We look at a possible correlation between hip joint effusion and metal ion levels.
Materials and methods
56 patients,(42M, 14F) agreed to the study. All had metal-on-mental arthroplasties. Average age was 64.2 (SD 9.8). All patients were asymptomatic.
Ultrasound examination performed by one ultrasonographer, using a Sonosite M-Turbo machine with a C60X/5-2 MHz transducer.
Cobalt levels were assessed using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Chromium levels were assessed using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer.
Results
Average blood ion levels were:
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Cobalt 39.02 nmol/L. (SD41.18) range 3 to 215.
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Chromium 52.51 nmol/L (SD47.48) range 5 to 284
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Average Volume: 10.38ml (SD21.3) Range 0 to 219.
Conclusion
There was no statistically significant correlation between joint effusion and metal ion levels.
