FDA Issues New Warning Regarding Dangers of Metal-on-Metal Hip Replacements
If the notion of metal component rubbing against each other inside your body makes you cringe, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed last week that you have a reason to be concerned.
The Georgia products liability attorneys at Montlick & Associates reports that the FDA has issued a warning about the potential adverse effects of metal-on-metal hip replacements made of cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys. The metal components of the hip replacement devices, which include a metallic ball that rotates in a metallic cup, are designed to slide back and forth against each other when those with this medical implant walk or run. However, the FDA has now warned that small metallic particles may rub off the components of such hip replacements.
This type of metal-on-metal hip replacement may cause damage to bone and soft tissue near the vicinity of the implant. The release of the debris can be extremely painful resulting in a condition referred to as Adverse Reaction to Metal Debris (ARMD). Because this process can result in the implant becoming loose so that it drops, revisionary surgery may be required for some patients. The federal agency has also determined that the process of erosion of the metal can result in metal IONS being released into the bloodstream and traveling to other parts of the body. The IONs can cause additional medical complications when they migrate throughout the body but the reactions do not appear to be standard between patients. The FDA has not indicated what level of IONs in the body should be considered unsafe.
The FDA has recommended that those who need a hip replacement avoid the metal against metal type of replacement and opt instead for implants made out of ceramic or polyurethane material or where only one of the components is metallic. If you received a metal-on-metal type of implant you should consult with your doctor and ask about the merit of regular annual or semi-annual checkups and radiograms.
Our Georgia defective medical device attorneys are currently reviewing cases involving patients that have suffered serious complications including the need for revisionary surgery following metal-on-metal hip replacements including DuPuy ASR™ Hip Replacement implants. If you have suffered serious complications that may be related to the deterioration of a defective hip replacement, we invite you to contact our law firm to obtain a free case evaluation.
Montlick and Associates is available to provide effective legal representation to clients throughout all of Georgia and the Southeast, including but not limited to Albany, Athens, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Gainesville, Macon, Marietta, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Smyrna, Valdosta, Warner Robins and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. No matter where you are located our attorneys are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.