Some metals, polymers, chemicals, and other materials utilized with
orthopedic implants have been known to cause cancer and other adverse
body reactions, or reports in the literature have suggested such
causation. Any factor that causes chronic damage to tissues may be
oncogenic. Cancer can metastasize from soft tissue sites (lung,
breast, digestive system, and others) to bone, including areas
adjacent to implants, or it can be seeded to these locations during
operative and diagnostic procedures (such as biopsies). Paget’s
disease has been reported to progress to cancer; surgical candidates
suffering from this disease should be warned accordingly.
Implantation of foreign material in tissues can elicit an
inflammatory reaction. Current literature suggests that wear debris
(including metal, polyethylene, ceramic, and cement particles) can
initiate the process of histiocytic granuloma formation and consequent
osteolysis and loosening.
Metal sensitivity has been reported following exposure to orthopedic
implants. The most common metallic sensitivities (nickel, cobalt, and
chromium) are present in medical grade stainless steel and
cobalt-chrome alloys.
The inViZia Anterior Cervical Plate System is a temporary
internal fixation device. Internal fixation devices are designed to
stabilize the operative site during the normal healing process. After
healing occurs, these devices serve no functional purpose and must be
removed. Implant removal should be followed by adequate postoperative
management to avoid fracture or refracture.