Analysis of polyethylene wear debris using micro-Raman spectroscopy. A report on the presence of beta-carotene

This paper describes micro-Raman spectroscopy of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene wear debris isolated from revised knee replacements. The novel application of micro-Raman spectroscopy to the analysis of in vivo- generated wear debris was used to evaluate the chemical nature of individual, retrieved polyethylene particles. The analysis revealed the presence of β- carotene on particles from both synovial fluid and tissue samples. Raman analysis of retrieved polyethylene tibial inserts also revealed localized β- carotene signals within the primary wear region. In this paper, a mechanism is suggested that may account for the coupling of β-carotene and polyethylene wear debris. We also discuss the origin of β-carotene within the implanted joint and the implications that β-carotene, an anti-oxidant, has for the overall host response to polyethylene orthopedic components.