Difference in metallic wear distribution released from commercially pure titanium compared with stainless steel plates

Abstract

We conclude from the increased release of toxic, allergic, and potentially carcinogenic ions adjacent to stainless steel that commercially pure Ti should be treated as the preferred material for osteosyntheses if a removal of the implant is not intended. However, neither material provoked a foreign-body reaction in the local tissues, thus cpTi cannot be recommend as the 'golden standard' for osteosynthesis material in general.

Titanium and steel fracture fixation plates with different surface topographies: Influence on infection rate in a rabbit fracture model

“…When the oxide film is mechanically abraded, metal ions may be released from the highly reactive and less biocompatible stainless steel. In general, the most toxic components (cobalt, chromium, nickel and iron) are found in and released from stainless steel [31]. As we know that iron is necessary for the proliferation of bacteria, this may also have an influence on the susceptibility of the implant to infection.…”

Indications for implant removal after fracture healing: a review of the literature

“…After the introduction of TAN in 1977 its composition has been improved continuously. The biocompatibility of TAN is excellent and so far no toxic reactions, signs of corrosion or allergic reactions have been described, which has made its use rather popular the last 15 years [18][19][20]. But since the widespread use of locked head TAN plates, technical difficulties during removal have become a new problem [21].…”

Improved Biocompatibility of Titanium–Zirconium (Ti–Zr) Alloy: Tissue Reaction and Sensitization to Ti–Zr Alloy Compared with Pure Ti and Zr in Rat Implantation Study

“…1,14) Commercially pure Ti has generally good biocompatibility, [14][15][16][17] but its mechanical strength is insufficient for use in artificial hip joints. 16,20) Furthermore, the appearance of increased wear debris from Ti has been associated with tissue inflammation.…”

“…The use of Ti alloys is increasing due to their excellent mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and good biocompatibility. [14][15][16][17] These properties are attributable mainly to the formation of a stable titanium oxide (TiO 2 ) layer on the surface. 18,19) However, the mechanical/tensile strength of commercially pure Ti is insufficient for its use as an artificial hip joint, pin, or screw, 20) and its wear resistance is also inferior to that of stainless steels and Co-Cr alloys.…”