Tribological characteristics of polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a lubricant for wear resistance of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in artificial knee join

For the longevity of total knee joint prostheses, we have developed an artificial lubricant using polyethylene glycol (PEG) for the prevention of wear of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In the present study, the lubricative function of this PEG lubricant was evaluated by a wear test using Co-Cr alloy and UHMWPE counter surface samples. As a result, human synovial fluid including the PEG lubricant showed good result regarding the wear volume and a worn surface of UHMWPE. Considering its lubrication mechanism, it is suspected that interaction between the PEG molecules and the proteins in synovial fluid was involved. Since PE molecules are also organic compounds having a hydroxyl group at one or both ends, the albumin and PEG molecule complex would have bound more strongly to the metal oxide surface and UHMWPE surfaces might enhance and stabilize the lubricating film between the contact surfaces under the boundary lubrication. This study suggests that PEG lubricant as an intra-articular viscous supplement has the potential to prevent wear of UHMWPE by mixing with synovial fluid and to contribute to the longevity of knee joint prostheses. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.