Multitechnique characterization of articular surfaces of retrieved ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene acetabular sockets.

The articular surfaces of 10 retrieved ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene acetabular sockets were studied by optical microscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, multiple internal reflectance FTIR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and wavelength dispersive X-ray microanalysis. The results revealed characteristic wear patterns including polishing, scratching, pitting, cratering, folding, shredding, burnishing, cracking, embedding of particles, and development of acquired biofilms with various degrees of mineralization. The biofilms formed were mainly of proteinaceous origin, and mineralized regions were composed of calcium phosphates with carbonate impurities. The crystallinity of the polyethylene at the articular surfaces was enhanced compared to the bulk, which was possibly due to the cold work produced in vivo. The mineralized regions were classified into two groups based on the grey levels of the backscattered images obtained. The high-contrast regions that were mainly composed of Ca and P with traces of Al and Si were associated with bone fragments; the low-contrast regions composed of K, Na, Ca, Mg, Si, Al, Fe, Cl, and P were associated with acquired biofilm calcification, which implies the active engagement of biofilms in the long term performance of acetabular sockets in vivo.