An Overview of Internal Fixation Implant Metallurgy and Galvanic Corrosion Effects

Justin Koh; Aaron Berger; Prosper Benhaim

doi:10.1016/j.jhsa.2015.03.030

An Overview of Internal Fixation Implant Metallurgy and Galvanic Corrosion Effects

J Hand Surg Am. 2015 Aug;40(8):1703-10, 1710.e1-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2015.03.030. Epub 2015 Jul 1.

Authors

Justin Koh¹, Aaron Berger¹, Prosper Benhaim²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA.
² Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA. Electronic address: pbenhaim@mednet.ucla.edu.

PMID: 26143030
DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2015.03.030

Abstract

Orthopedic and hand surgery implants for internal fixation of fractures have evolved substantially over the past 50 years. Newer metal compositions have been used, and new standards have been applied to older alloys, resulting in modern implants with unique physical properties and better clinical performances. Conventional wisdom has long dictated that implanting different metals should be avoided, but few guidelines exist regarding the safety of using in proximity implant systems of dissimilar metals. To better characterize the landscape of internal fixation implant metallurgy, we have compiled the recommendations and conclusions of the currently available and pertinent literature.

Keywords: Metallurgy; corrosion; steel; titanium.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Alloys*
Corrosion*
Fracture Fixation, Internal / instrumentation*
Humans
Internal Fixators*
Prosthesis Design
Stainless Steel
Titanium

Substances

Alloys
Stainless Steel
Titanium