Implant research breakthrough at UL

Researchers from the University of Limerick have found a way to improve the lifespan of orthopaedic implants which will reduce the risk of infection and the need for secondary surgical procedures.

Dr Maurice N Collins of the UL research team said: “Currently some orthopaedic materials have failure rates of 13% over five years and our research hopes to explain the failure mechanisms in these materials in order to positively impact on the longevity of implants.”

The researchers have explored a link between sterilisation methods and wear in the polyethylene based material called ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene which is predominantly used in artificial joints. The material provides a bearing surface against which hard metal or ceramic components connect.