title: Metallosis and Metal-Induced Synovitis Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: Review of Radiographic and CT Findings.
abstract: Metallosis and metal-induced synovitis are well-recognized complications of metal-backed polyethylene joint prostheses and have been frequently described in the orthopedic surgery literature; however, relatively fewer articles discussing the radiologic aspects of this complication have been published. To illustrate the importance of radiologic findings in the diagnosis and management of these patients, we present a case of metallosis and metal-induced synovitis complicating two revisions of a total knee arthroplasty, caused by polyethylene liner wear and dissociation of the polyethylene liner from the metal-backed patellar prosthesis. Specific attention is given to reviewing signs that aid in diagnosis, such as the "bubble sign," "cloud sign," and "metal-line signs."
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
authors.forename: Jason W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Romesburg
authors.forename: Paul L
authors.initials: PL
authors.lastname: Wasserman
authors.forename: Candace H
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Schoppe