Prosthesis work has good chemistry

Researchers Dr Philippa Cann and Dr Janet Wong from Imperial College London’s mechanical engineering department are analysing the synovial fluid lubricating films formed on joints during rubbing.

The project will rely on in-contact fluorescence imaging and atomic force microscopy to study the fluid’s chemical composition, molecular structure and local physical properties such as rheology and friction.

The researchers hope their work will provide information on the fundamental lubrication mechanisms that occur in artificial hip joints. They believe this will have important implications for the development of new low-wear prosthesis designs.

The research could have benefits for the NHS, orthopaedic surgeons and patients as it is expected the outcome will improve joint life and reduce incidence of implant replacements.

In 2007, the UK performed 10,500 total hip replacement (THR) revision operations, each of which may cost up to £25,000, totalling £255m per year. THR revision operations are estimated to consume 10 per cent of the NHS joint-replacement budget.