Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a key component of modern total joint replacements (TJR). The most frequently replaced human joints are hips and knees, followed by shoulders, elbows, etc. However, UHMWPE liners are the most loaded components of the implants. Consequently, the main materialrelated reasons of TJR failures are wear and oxidative degradation of the polymer. Resistance to wear (i.e. release of microscopic particles from the polymer surface) is increased by radiation-induced crosslinking. Oxidation stability (i.e. resistance of polymer to chain scissions and deterioration of mechanical properties) is enhanced by means of suitable thermal treatment and sterilization protocols. The most recent trend is to employ a biocompatible stabilizer – vitamin E – for further improvement and finetuning of UHMWPE performance. This review summarizes the recent developments in UHMWPE modifications, which come both from the author’s institute and from the world, and which should further increase lifespan of total joint replacements.

• MeSH
• alfa-tokoferol MeSH
• artroplastiky kloubů * MeSH
• biokompatibilní materiály chemická syntéza   chemie   terapeutické užití   MeSH
• biomechanika MeSH
• dávka záření MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• polyethyleny * chemická syntéza   chemie   terapeutické užití   MeSH
• polymery * chemická syntéza   chemie   terapeutické užití   MeSH
• protézy kloubů MeSH
• testování materiálů MeSH
• záření gama MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH