title: Radiation cross-linking in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene for orthopaedic applications.
abstract: The motivation for radiation cross-linking of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is to increase its wear resistance to be used as bearing surfaces for total joint arthroplasty. However, radiation also leaves behind long-lived residual free radicals in this polymer, the reactions of which can detrimentally affect mechanical properties. In this review, we focus on the radiation cross-linking and oxidative stability of first and second generation highly cross-linked UHMWPEs developed in our laboratory.
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery.
authors.forename: Ebru
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Oral
authors.forename: Orhun K
authors.initials: OK
authors.lastname: Muratoglu