Neoplastic Transformation of Cells by Orthopaedic Metals In Vitro

Doran, Anthony (1993) Neoplastic Transformation of Cells by Orthopaedic Metals In Vitro. MD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

The development of successful joint replacement prostheses and the widespread use of fracture fixation devices have revolutionised the practice of orthopaedic and trauma surgery over the last thirty years. The metal alloys used for such implants are chosen both for their mechanical strength and high degree of biocompatibility. However, over time, the processes of in vivo corrosion and wear liberate metals from all of the alloys in current use. Some metals are recognized carcinogens in the industrial environment and in recent years there have been growing numbers of reports of malignant tumours associated with metal implants in patients. In relation to the millions of patients who have benefited from such operations, these reports remain small in number but have raised concern over the possible effects of long term exposure to metal from implants. Recent developments in cell culture techniques have made it possible to study, in vitro, cellular mechanisms associated with carcinogenesis and to apply these methods as screening tools. This study therefore investigated and compared the ability of the commonly used implant metals to induce neoplastic transformation and toxicity in fibroblasts in cell culture. Eight metals, namely cobalt, chromium, nickel, iron, molybdenum, aluminium, vanadium and titanium, were tested both as soluble salts and as solid particles. Two cell lines were employed, C3H/10T

• Item Type: Thesis (MD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Additional Information: Adviser: Neil Rushton
• Keywords: Medicine, Biomedical engineering
• Date of Award: 1993
• Depositing User: Enlighten Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:1993-76324
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 19 Nov 2019 15:46
• Last Modified: 19 Nov 2019 15:46
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/76324