Thalidomide and neurotrophism.

Background: Following the thalidomide disaster (1958-62), Henkel and Willert analysed the pattern of dysmelia in the long bones (J Bone Joint Surg Br. 51:399-414, 1969) and the extremities, Willert and Henkel (Z Orthop Ihre Grenzgeb. 107:663-75, 1970).

Metallic debris from metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty regulates periprosthetic tissues.

The era of metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasty has left the orthopaedic community with valuable insights and lessons on periprosthetic tissue reactions to metallic debris. Various terms have been used to describe the tissue reactions. Sometimes the nomenclature can be confusing.

Increased metal allergy in patients with failed metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty and peri-implant T-lymphocytic inflammation.

Background: In 16 patients with revised metal-on-metal arthroplasty and peri-implant lymphocytic inflammation, we verified the role of metal hypersensitivity by patch testing (PT) and lymphocyte transformation test (LTT).

Methods: In the 16 patients with lymphocyte dominated periprosthetic inflammation, allergy history was obtained by a questionnaire, specific serum IgE to aeroallergens was measured to assess atopy, PT to standard and metal series was performed and metal sensitivity was further assessed by LTT using blood mononuclear cells.

Results: Revision surgery was performed because of pain (8/16), osteolysis (4/16), dislocation (3/16) and loosening of the stem (1/16).

Five- to 10-year results using a noncemented modular revision stem without bone grafting.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the 5- to 10-year results (mean, 6.2 years) of a modular uncemented revision stem (Profemur-R). From a total series of 184 consecutive stem revisions, the first 73 were evaluated.