Regional soft tissue calcification has been reported. Silicone synovitis occurs most frequently in sites where implants are subject to severe compression and shearing forces, such as the wrist and hallux. Silicon is not, by any means, the only material that can lead to particle synovitis. This process can also be caused by fragments of polymethylmethacrylate cement, polyethylene, metal, latex, carbon, Dacron, and even bone itself. Although the actual chemical composition of the intraarticular fragments may influence the amount of inflammatory response, particle size may play a more important role.
Phagocytosis leads to cell death, leading to the release of bone-resorbing mediators.
Imaging of joint replacement. Diagnosis of bone and joint disorders, 3rd ed.