Foot, Ankle, and Shoulder Replacement Implant Testing

At Element we test shoulder replacements, total ankle replacements, foot implants, and various small joint orthopedics including wrist and elbow devices. Our capabilities support evaluation of both traditional designs and novel devices with custom protocols, with specialized expertise in glenoid components, shoulder constraints, and total ankle replacement systems as they become increasingly important treatment options.

Shoulder Implant Testing

Element provides comprehensive testing for total shoulder replacements, including fatigue testing, glenoid shear, glenoid loosening, and shoulder constraint testing, all performed to ASTM standards or custom protocols. We also conduct shoulder replacement wear testing using unique, proprietary in-house methods.

Foot and Ankle Implant Testing

With the growing popularity of total ankle replacements, Element offers fatigue, constraint, and wear testing for ankle implants, following ASTM F2665 standards, to support the latest advancements in ankle arthritis treatment.

Within these, we provide essential testing capabilities including: 

• Fatigue Testing 

• Flex and Bend Testing 

• Shear Testing 

• Wear Testing 

• Particulate Analysis 

• Range of Motion 

• Feasibility Studies 

• Porous Coating Evaluation 

• Glenoid Loosening Testing 

• Constraint Testing 

• Multi-axis testing 

We perform testing to recognized ASTM standard methods and develop custom protocols for unique or novel designs. Our team provides comprehensive in-house testing and project management support through every stage - from initial feasibility studies and test design to metallographic evaluation and final regulatory submission. We specialize in both mechanical testing and particulate analysis for complete device assessment.

Our Cincinnati laboratory is Element's global Center of Technical Excellence for medical device testing, supported by our expert team operating from strategically located medical device industry hubs. Find your nearest lab on our Locations Page. 

We specialize in testing emerging technologies like total ankle replacements, which the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes are becoming the treatment of choice for many patients with ankle arthritis.