Production of cytokines around loosened cemented acetabular components: Analysis with immunohistochemical techniques and in situ hybridization

Abstract

Previous studies have demonstrated that particulate debris from joint implants causes cells to release products that are associated with pathological bone resorption and osteolysis. Membranous tissue was obtained from the cement-bone interface of ten polyethylene acetabular hip components during revision surgery for aseptic loosening. Using an immunoperoxidase method, the cells identifi ed by the use of specifi c antibodies were mainly macrophages and in lesser quantities fi broblasts actively producing collagen. Less than 10 % of cells consisted of T lymphocytes. Particulate debris (polyethylene, methylmethacrylate and metal) was contained in all membrane specimens but was intracellular only in macrophages and multinucleated giant cells.