Metal Hip Implants Raise Concern Among Patients

Metal hip implants were designed to help patients who have hip problems, health experts say, but there were some problems that were seen with the use of this type of prosthesis. Patients may have varied forms of reactions with the metal particles from the hip implant, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), although the metal particles around the implant may cause serious damage to the bone and surrounding tissues. The use of metal-on-metal hip implant as a hip prosthesis was short lived because the public was warned about the possible complications. Still there were several lawsuits filed by patients and some have even waited for the settlement registration order from the New Jersey court.

The FDA mandated the manufacturers of these metal-on-metal hip implants to conduct a post-market surveillance study of their product. This means that all adverse events related to the metal-on-metal since it was first released in the market should be monitored and documented by the manufacturer. The report was then submitted to the FDA for review and analysis. It was found that constant use of the prosthesis will enable some of the metal particles to wear off from the device and might lodge into the surrounding tissues. It is also possible that metal ions will enter the blood stream and cause other health problems.

The unpredictability on how the patients' body system will react to the metal particles makes this post-market surveillance study crucial in determining the effects of the metal ions. Researchers need to gather all the data related to these metal-on-metal hip implants in order to understand the possible complications and long-term effects of the high levels of metal ions in the blood. In earlier observations, the metal particles were found to cause adverse local tissue reaction (ALTR) that may lead to extensive damage to the bone, muscle and nerves. The damage to the surrounding tissues may eventually lead to hip implant failure and pain. Early hip revision surgery is needed to prevent the progression of the ALTR.

Symptoms of device malfunction such as pain, swelling, changes in gait and a popping noise need to be reported to the health care provider. Physical examination and several diagnostic tests will help in knowing the extent of the damage. If there are no signs of any problems, patients with metal-on-metal hip implants are still advised to see their orthopedic surgeon every one or two years. The DePuy Hip Recall News Center may be able to provide new information on the problems related to these hip implants.

URL References:

fda.gov/Medicaldevices/productsandmedicalprocedures/implantsandprosthetics/metalonmetalhipimplants/ucm241604.htm

orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00625

fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/ImplantsandProsthetics/MetalonMetalHipImplants/ucm241594.htm#risks

Queries Regarding Hip Replacement Operation

 Men and women who have hip pain might consider all options before deciding to undergo a hip replacement operation, orthopedic experts believe. First performed in 1960, according to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgery (AAOS), hip replacement surgery remains to be one of the most successful surgical procedure in all of medicine. Those who are not responding well to their previous treatments such as medications, lifestyle changes and exercise are instructed to have this procedure. Those who are still contemplating on the procedure needs to know all the details about the operation. Health care providers will give the important details for the patient to be aware of the possible risks and benefits of the surgery.

It may help to ask the right questions to disperse any doubts and fears. These questions are commonly asked by patients:

What is a hip replacement?

- It is surgically removing the damaged part of the joint and inserting the artificial joint in its place.

What are the other alternatives to hip replacement surgery?

- One may opt for a less complex surgical procedure like an osteotomy wherein the bone is cute and realigned.

What occurs after the procedure?

- A minimum of three to five days may be spent recuperating in the hospital. While they are in the hospital, the physical therapist will teach them several joint strengthening exercises that they need to continue when they are already discharged.

How long is the recovery period?

- Full recover may occur within three to six months after the operation. Their recovery pace may be affected by their diligence in doing their exercises and following their doctors’ recommendations.

What are the common complications of this procedure?

- The complications that patients may experience may vary. This is a major surgical procedure, hence, it also has the same set of complications present in major operations. Dislocation remains to be a common problem after the surgery because the artificial joint is not as large as the normal joint. Wear and tear of the implant is also a possible problem after many years of using it. A hip revision may be required if these problems occur.

Patient often choose orthopedic surgeons who have much experience in performing the operation because it may affect their recovery. Researches are conducted by orthopedic specialist to create better hip implants that are less prone to wear and tear that have resulted to a hip implant recall.

URL References:

orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00377

niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Hip_Replacement/#3