Date of Award
5-2007
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Legacy Department
Bioengineering
Committee Chair/Advisor
LaBerge, Martine
Abstract
Evaluation of retrieved joint arthroplasty bearings provides unique evidence related to the physiological environment in which bearing materials are expected to perform. This dissertation describes the development of novel spatial sensors and measurement strategies for standardized, quantitative assessments of arthroplasty bearings, including total knee replacements, unicompartmental knee replacements, and total hip replacements. The approach is to assess bearings that endured a finite duration of function in patients, with particular emphasis on expanding our understanding of the biomechanical conditions specific to bearing function and wear in the physiological environment. Several quantifiable parameters are identified that prove comparable to pre-clinical in vitro tibological evaluations, including knee wear simulation and analytical modeling. These comparisons provide clinical relevance to the existing methodologies, helping to verify that the biomechanical simulations accurately represent the in vivo conditions they are meant to simulate. The broad objective of this dissertation is to improve the longevity and function of arthroplasty bearing materials and designs. Assessments from the retrieved prostheses are discussed within the context of developing comprehensive approaches for the prospective evaluation of new materials and designs in joint replacements.
Recommended Citation
Harman, Melinda, "Spatial Sensors for Quantitative Assessment of Retrieved Arthroplasty Bearings" (2007). All Dissertations. 80.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_dissertations/80