Abstract
Metallosis and metal-induced synovitis are well-recognized complications of metal-backed polyethylene joint prostheses and have been frequently described in the orthopedic surgery literature; however, relatively fewer articles discussing the radiologic aspects of this complication have been published. To illustrate the importance of radiologic findings in the diagnosis and management of these patients, we present a case of metallosis and metal-induced synovitis complicating two revisions of a total knee arthroplasty, caused by polyethylene liner wear and dissociation of the polyethylene liner from the metal-backed patellar prosthesis. Specific attention is given to reviewing signs that aid in diagnosis, such as the "bubble sign," "cloud sign," and "metal-line signs".
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 7-17 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Journal of Radiology Case Reports |
Volume | 4 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2010 |
Keywords
- Bubble sign
- Cloud sign
- Metal-induced synovitis
- Metal-line sign
- Metallosis
- Periprosthetic osteolysis
- Polyethylene liner failure
- Total knee arthroplasty complications
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging