Depressive effects of acrylic cement components on bone metabolism. Isotope release and phosphatase production studied in vitro.

In vitro methyl methacrylate bone cement components were found to depress the release of radioactive calcium and proline as well as the activity of both alkaline and acid phosphatases. These effects were dose dependent and reached levels observed for dead bone. These observations may reflect part of the pathogenesis of loosening of joint replacements involving the use of bone cement.