Experimental investigation on the effect of biofluids properties on the tribology of total joint replacement (TJR)

The procedure known as total knee replacement (TKR) is now routinely performed on those who suffer from degenerative joint disease. Researchers continue to be concerned about the limited-service life of implants despite the constantly rising number of treatments Nevertheless, polyethylene (PE) liners, which are frequently used as implant materials, can gradually deteriorate, producing particles that induce inflammation and potentially result in implant malfunction. This study examines a dual strategy to improve the lifetime of TKR. First and foremost, we investigate the potential substitution of PE liners with poly lactic acid (PLA) implants. PLA exhibits enhanced biocompatibility and has the potential to mitigate the formation of wear debris. Furthermore, we present an innovative approach to lubrication by utilising plant-derived oils (canola, castor, and sunflower seed) in conjunction with hyaluronic acid (HA) modifiers. The present lubrication methodology emulates the characteristics of synovial fluid, which serves as the inherent lubricant within our joints. The tribological behaviour of the bio lubricants has received particular concern, as reductions in friction and wear have been crucial to the development of modern knee implants. Therefore, this research aims to assess the viability of employing the polymer PLA to substitute cartilage in TKR procedures that employ vegetable oils as lubricants. This study utilised a response surface methodology (RSM) with a Box-Behnken design (BBD) to enhance the lubricants composition.