| abstract |
The present invention is directed to a polymeric prosthesis precoated with a bone cement compatible polymer. The bone cement compatible polymer coating, is provided by an activated powder mixture of polymethyl methacrylate and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene which is bonded to the outer surface of the prosthesis by sintering. Once bonded to a polymeric prosthesis in accordance with the present invention, the precoat strengthens the interface between a bone cement and a prosthesis when the prosthesis is later implanted. The inner layer of the prosthesis may be provided of cross-linked UHMWPE powder sintered with virgin UHMWPE powder or fibers to provide a intermediate layer(s) of the coating present on the prosthesis. The precoat also decreases the likelihood that the prosthesis will loosen and break away from the cement over time. The polymeric implant product of the present invention is particularly well suited for use as an acetabular cup or a tibia plateau in replacing hip joints and knee joints respectively. |