Editorial
Copyright ©The Author(s) 2024. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.
World J Orthop. May 18, 2024; 15(5): 386-389
Published online May 18, 2024. doi: 10.5312/wjo.v15.i5.386
Addressing metallosis in knee arthroplasty: From diagnostic challenges to innovative treatments
Yvon Maurice Bogdonoff, Farid Amirouche
Yvon Maurice Bogdonoff, Farid Amirouche, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
Farid Amirouche, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Northshore University Health System, Skokie, IL 60076, United States
Author contributions: Bogdonoff Y contributed to this work as first author; Bogdonoff Y and Amirouche F contributed to this paper; Amirouche F and Bogdonoff Y designed the concept and outline; Amirouche F and Bogdonoff Y contributed to the writing and review of literature; Amirouche F was responsible for oversight and coordination; and all authors contributed to the editing of the manuscript.
Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors have nothing to disclose.
Open-Access: This article is an open-access article that was selected by an in-house editor and fully peer-reviewed by external reviewers. It is distributed in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial (CC BY-NC 4.0) license, which permits others to distribute, remix, adapt, build upon this work non-commercially, and license their derivative works on different terms, provided the original work is properly cited and the use is non-commercial. See: https://creativecommons.org/Licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Corresponding author: Yvon Maurice Bogdonoff, BSc, Academic Editor, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1801 West. Taylor Street, Suite 2A, Chicago, IL 60612, United States. ybogdo2@uic.edu
Received: December 4, 2023
Revised: February 14, 2024
Accepted: April 11, 2024
Published online: May 18, 2024
Abstract

In this editorial, we comment on the article by Toro et al published in the recent issue of World Journal of Orthopedics. This editorial review provides a comprehensive exploration of the landscape surrounding knee arthroplasty metallosis, focusing on key aspects ranging from the mechanisms influencing susceptibility to clinical implications and advanced treatment strategies. We elucidate the complex interplay of implant design, patient-specific variables, and wear-related processes contributing to metallosis. Furthermore, we seek to shed light on diagnostic challenges, the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach, and the imperative for vigilant implant surveillance. Uni-on-uni revision, as a targeted treatment modality, is discussed, highlighting its potential to address metallosis in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). There is a need for heightened awareness among clinicians regarding the subtle presentations of metallosis, coupled with the limitations of traditional imaging techniques. Addressing metallosis requires a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to effectively navigate the complexities associated with this complication. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the evolving paradigm of personalized care, with uni-on-uni revision emerging as a promising surgical solution. In conclusion, the editorial outlines the dynamic nature of knee arthroplasty metallosis and its multifaceted impact on clinical practice. It calls for ongoing collaboration, education, and integration of innovative solutions to enhance diagnostic accuracy, proactive management, and overall patient outcomes in the realm of UKA.

Keywords: Ultrasound, X-ray, Total knee arthroplasty, Case report, Review, Editorial

Core Tip: Metallosis is a rare but serious complication of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. It is generally treated through surgical debridement and revision to a total knee arthroplasty. However, in the absence of critical signs of implant malpositioning, soft tissue impairment, or bone loss, it could be successfully resolved through surgical debridement and uni-on-uni revision.