The use of fluorescence markers to record prosthetic wear patterns

Abstract

An application of fluorescence photography to demonstrate wear of the articulating surfaces of prosthetic hip joints. The physical nature and design of the hip prosthesis present considerable lighting difficulties when using conventional lighting methods to record fine abrasions on the articular surface-in particular, specular reflections from the light source. A fluorescent technique, using a fluorescent powder, was used to document wear patterns. This paper describes the technique of applying a fluorescent material to the articular surface of both the cup and stem of a used prosthetic joint. The excess material is removed, leaving miniature particles lodged within the fine abrasions of the worn surface. The residue is irradiated with an ultraviolet (UV) source and the resultant fluorescence recorded onto conventional black and white film.