We have assessed the different adhesive properties
of some of the most common bacteria associated with periprosthetic
joint infection on various types of ultra high molecular Weight
Polyethylene (UHMWPE). Quantitative in vitro analysis
of the adhesion of biofilm producing strains of Staphylococcus
aureus and Escherichia coli to physically
and chemically characterised standard UHMWPE (PE), vitamin E blended
UHMWPE (VE-PE) and oxidised UHMWPE (OX-PE) was performed using a
sonication protocol. A significant decreased bacterial adhesion
was registered for both strains on VE-PE, in comparison with that
observed on PE, within 48 hours of observation (S. aureus p
= 0.024 and E. coli p = 0.008). Since Vitamin E
reduces bacterial adhesive ability, VE-stabilised UHMWPE could be
valuable in joint replacement by presenting excellent mechanical
properties, while reducing bacterial adhesiveness.
Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:497–501.
