METALLIC ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS AND THEIR POSSIBLE ASSOCIATION WITH CANCER

In recent years the use of metallic orthopedic implants has increased greatly. The long-term effects of these artificial joints and fixation devices on surrounding and distant body tissues are uncertain. This r eview paper examines the possible association of cancer with metallic orthopedic implants. Biochemical processes stemming from formation of wear particles and corrosion and iophysical processes related to surfa ce characteristics of implants are discussed as possible initiators an d promoters of carcinogenic responses, locally as well as in remote si tes. Animal data and human case reports are summarized. Approaches to further studying the issue, including epidemiologic studies, use of re gistries, and in vitro assays, are presented.