Metal on metal hip replacements are artificial hips typically made out of cobalt and chromium alloy. The “ball” of the femur (located at the top of the thigh bone) is replaced with a metal ball, and the socket of the pelvis (where the ball of the femur sits) is replaced with a metal cup. This together makes up the hip and gives the procedure its name. This type of hip replacement often results in great pain for the individual receiving the hip, and often revision surgery is needed further down the road.
Metallosis is the leading reason why so many recipients have pain and why so many require revision surgery. Metallosis occurs naturally from walking. When we walk, the ball and socket of the hip rub together to permit movement. But with metal on metal hip replacements, this movement often creates friction which causes small metal particles to disperse from the hip throughout the body. This can cause metal poisoning, destroyed nerves, splintered bones, and fragmented muscles near the hip. Further, the metals released throughout the body can lead to heart damage, brain damage, and kidney damage.
If you have experienced any of the following symptoms from your metal-on-metal hip replacement, contact your doctor immediately as these may be signs of metal poisoning:
- Thigh or groin pain
- Pain at the site of the surgery
- Dislocation of the hip
- Inflammation, swelling, irritation, or rash
- Taste of metal in your mouth
- Popping or squeaking at the surgery site
- Bone deterioration
- Shortness of breath, or erratic and confused behavior
The Forester Haynie Law Firm is currently investigating claims of negative effects caused by metal on metal hip replacements.
Please contact us at 214-210-2100 or at info@foresterhaynie.com to learn more about what this could mean for you.
This post was written by law clerk, Paige Quick.
