Use of bisphosphonates to improve the durability of total joint replacements.

Abstract

Total joint arthroplasty is very effective for improving the quality of life of patients with end-stage arthritis. Despite advances in materials, surgical technique, and rehabilitation regimens, joint replacements are still fraught with complications leading to their premature failure. Aseptic loosening and osteolysis are the primary causes of implant failure. Other reasons include early migration of components leading to instability, lack of ingrowth into implant porosities, and bone loss caused by stress shielding. Pharmaceutical agents used for preventing and managing postmenopausal osteoporosis (eg, bisphosphonates) may in the future play an important role in improving the long-term duration of joint arthroplasties. Early findings indicate that bisphosphonates upregulate bone morphogenetic protein-2 production and stimulate new bone formation. Because of their anabolic effect on osteoblasts, bisphosphonates have the potential to enhance bone ingrowth into implant porosities, prevent bone resorption under adverse conditions, and dramatically extend the long-term durability of joint arthroplasties. The long-term effects of bisphosphonate use on the mechanical properties of bone have not been adequately investigated. Along with improvements in implant design and material properties, bisphosphonates and other pharmaceutical agents may, in the near future, be part of the growing armamentarium that provides more durable joint arthroplasties.

• Authors: Arun S Shanbhag
• Journal: The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (J Am Acad Orthop Surg) Vol. 14 Issue 4 Pg. 215-25 (Apr 2006) ISSN: 1067-151X [Print] United States
• PMID: 16585363 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Review)

Chemical References

• BMP2 protein, human
• Bone Density Conservation Agents
• Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2
• Bone Morphogenetic Proteins
• Diphosphonates
• Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
• Transforming Growth Factor beta

Topics

• Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee
• Bed Rest (adverse effects)
• Bone Density Conservation Agents (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2
• Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (metabolism)
• Bone Resorption (etiology, prevention & control)
• Diphosphonates (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors (pharmacology)
• Osseointegration (drug effects)
• Osteogenesis (drug effects)
• Osteoporosis (prevention & control)
• Prosthesis Failure
• Transforming Growth Factor beta (metabolism)