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European Spine Journal

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01-12-2012 | Original Article

Quantifying subtle but persistent peri-spine inflammation in vivo to submicron cobalt–chromium alloy particles

Authors: Nadim James Hallab, Frank W. Chan, Megan L. Harper

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 12/2012

Abstract

Purpose

We evaluated the consequences of cobalt–chromium alloy (CoCr) wear debris challenge in the peri-spine region to determine the inflammation and toxicity associated with submicron particulates of CoCr-alloy and nickel on the peri-spine.

Methods

The lumbar epidural spaces of (n = 50) New Zealand white rabbits were challenged with: 2.5 mg CoCr, 5.0 mg CoCr, 10.0 mg CoCr, a positive control (20.0 mg of nickel) and a negative control (ISOVUE-M-300). The CoCr-alloy and Ni particles had a mean diameter of 0.2 and 0.6 μm, respectively. Five rabbits per dose group were studied at 12 and 24 weeks. Local and distant tissues were analyzed histologically and quantitatively analyzed immunohistochemically (TNF-α and IL-6).

Results

Histologically, wear particles were observed in all animals. There was no evidence of toxicity or local irritation noted during macroscopic observations in any CoCr-dosed animals. However, Ni-treated control animals experienced bilateral hind leg paralysis and were euthanized at Day 2. Histopathology of the Ni particle-treated group revealed severe neuropathy. Quantitative immunohistochemistry demonstrated a CoCr-alloy dose-dependent increase in cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, p < 0.05) at 12 and 24 weeks.

Conclusions

Subtle peri-spine inflammation associated with CoCr-alloy implant particles was dose dependent and persistent. Neuropathy can be induced by highly reactive Ni particles. This suggests peri-spine challenge with CoCr-alloy implant debris (e.g., TDA) is consistent with past reports using titanium alloy particles, i.e., mild persistent inflammation.

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Title: Quantifying subtle but persistent peri-spine inflammation in vivo to submicron cobalt–chromium alloy particles
Authors: Nadim James Hallab
Frank W. Chan
Megan L. Harper
Publication date: 01-12-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue 12/2012
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-012-2251-x

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Quantifying subtle but persistent peri-spine inflammation in vivo to submicron cobalt–chromium alloy particles

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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