Challenge to the concept that UHMWPE acetabular components oxidize in vivo

Severe wear of the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) components of total joint replacements limits their long-term success. In previous studies, the infrared spectra obtained on retrieved UHMWPE components were interpreted as evidence that the UHMWPE oxidizes in vivo. In direct contrast, infrared spectroscopy of the retrieved UHMWPE acetabular components examined in this study demonstrated adsorbed esterified fatty acids, readily extractable by hexane, and no substantial evidence of in vivo oxidation. This emphasizes that special care must be taken when using infrared spectroscopy to assess retrieved components.