Symposium: The Use of Metal in Bone Surgery

Abstract

Norwich): History.-The story of the use of metal in bone surgery has not been a particularly happy one. Pioneers such as Lane and Lambotte were striving after perfect reduction and secure fixation in the treatment of fractures, but their efforts were spoilt by the use of unsuitable metal. The use of metal in bone surgery presents two problems:A. Corrosion or the reaction of the metal in the body tissues. B. The indications for the use of metal in the treatment of bony injuries and diseases.Both these problems are closely related because the indications for the use of metal will increase as the corrosion rate decreases, i.e. as more suitable metals or metallic alloys are found.It is impossible to deal with either completely, so I propose to limit my comments to a report-on some corrosion tests carried out for me by Mr. D. H. McCracken of the Engineering Department of the City of Norwich, and to some of my own personal experiences in the use of metal in bone surgery. A. CORROSION TESTs ON METALS USED FOR INTERNAL FIXATION It is assumed that the corrosion of metals in the body is largely due to electro-chemical Firth's FMB C 012, Si 02, Mn 2-0, Ni 8/12, Cr 17/20, Mo 2-5/3-5. Firth's EMS C 012, Si 06, Mn 12, Cr 18, Ni 10, Mo 0-3, Ti 0-6, Zr 0-25. Vitallium Co 65, Cr 30, Mo 5.Cells were set up with the metals as electrodes in various combinations in an electrolyte, and the strength and duration of the currents produced were measured. From the experiments the following conclusions can be drawn:Vitallium appears to be quite free from corrosion. Presumably a completely passive film is built up very quickly and the film remains stable. OCTOBER