The Oxinium Arthrogram: A Sign of Oxidized Zirconium Implant Failure

Abstract

Oxinium implants are composed of a zirconium alloy with a hard ceramic surface formed by oxidization of the outer layer. This material has been shown to be an effective bearing surface for total joint arthroplasty and an alternative material for use in patients with metal hypersensitivity. Reports exist of metallosis due to unintended wear of Oxinium components from multiple mechanisms including polyethylene liner dissociation and joint instability. This metallosis creates a distinct appearance on radiographic imaging similar to that of an arthrogram. We report 2 cases of metallosis and describe the characteristic radiographic appearance of failed oxidized zirconium implants.

Keywords

• Oxinium
• Oxidized zirconium
• Metallosis
• Arthrogram
• Total knee arthroplasty
• Total hip arthroplasty