Osteolysis

Written by Dr Sheila Strover on March 14, 2025

Osteolysis is the breakdown of bone, which is a normal part of the self-restructuring of bone, but which can in some cases be abnormal and leave cavities in the area.

Osteolysis ranks as the most significant cause of revision surgery in both total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The factors leading to osteolysis in TKA are unique and sometimes preventable. Changes in polyethylene manufacturing and implant design are striving to improve overall wear."

Aseptic loosening and other wear-related complications are some of the most frequent late reasons for revision of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Periprosthetic osteolysis (PPOL) pre-dates aseptic loosening in many cases, indicating the clinical significance of this pathogenic mechanism."

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