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Effect of Bisphosphonates on Total Joint Replacements

In this review article, a researcher from Harvard Medical School presents a summary of recent studies done on the effect of bisphosphonates on joint replacements. Both animal and human studies are reviewed.

Bisphosphonates are a group of manmade (synthetic) chemicals used to prevent bone loss in adults with osteoporosis. Doctors hope these drugs will also help joint implants last longer as well. The number one cause of implant failure is bone loss around the implant and implant
loosening.

With a total hip or knee replacement, there's a change in the way load or force from body weight is transferred though the bone. Bone loss and implant instability can be the result. Scientists are testing out the idea that bisphosphonates could prevent bone loss before it starts or reverse bone loss after it has started.

Several studies have shown that bisphosphonates can improve and maintain bone quality in patients with total joint replacements. The exact dosage needed for these effects is unknown. More studies are need in this area.

Other studies are looking at improving bone ingrowth around implants. One group tried soaking bone grafts in a bisphosphonate solution before using them. Use of bisphosphonates with younger patients is also a topic of consideration and debate. New and improved bisphosphonates have opened up even more areas of research.

References: Arun S. Shanbhag, PhD, MBA. Use of Bisphosphonates to Improve the Durability of Total Joint Replacements. In The Journal of the Amercian Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. April 2006. Vol. 14. No. 4. Pp. 215-225.

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