Metal-on-Metal Implants Scrutinized by FDA

It seems the government body is making headway towards policing these devices. However, many feel this has been long overdue.

On 17th of January 2013, a safety communication on metal-on-metal hip implants was issued by the FDA. The agency is set on updating various complications that has come to plague the device. Further, the government body stipulates that metal-on-metal implants could be risky due to the friction that occur between components. These implants, having both an all-metal ball and cup, can release tiny particles of metal when a patient moves or walks. In turn these particles can find its way to the bones and tissue of a patient causing damage.

Metal-on-metal Adverse Effects

With metal-on-metal hip implant, metal debris flake off from the device causing damage to surrounding tissues and bone. If largely unchecked this phenomenon can result to metallosis, or metal poisoning. More often than not, these complications lead to revision surgery as the pain gets more severe in time.

Many companies have manufactured metal-on-metal hip implant. One of them is Stryker. Patients who have decided to have Stryker’s implant should be aware of the initial signs of hip failure which could lead to a revision surgery.

One of the most obvious of these symptoms is pain accompanied by inflammation. On the other hand, metallosis can also affect other functions of the body such as the thyroid gland of a patient. Also, other side effects like neck discomfort, fatigue, weight gain and the distinct incapability to control one’s body temperature may also surface.

More Pronounced Risk for Some Patients

The FDA safety communication also listed out various factors that could increase the chances of a patient of suffering from the complications of a metal-on-metal implant. To note these are some of the listed factors:

-        Physically active
-        Female
-        Overweight  
-        Had had kidney failure, and
-        Have sensitivity to certain metals

Added to these, those who are taking corticosteroids are also at greater risk. So are those whose immune system have been suppressed.

Getting Justice for Metal-on-Metal Injuries

It is but righteous that one file a claim for injuries suffered from a metal-on-metal hip implant like DePuy. However, there is a need to do things right as there are requirements in seeking compensation through a DePuy Pinnacle lawsuit.

Getting the services of an experienced personal injury lawyer could be the best decision a justice-seeker can make. In this regard, many have sought the internet to give them access to the proven expertise, in rotlaw.com of the Rottenstein Law Group (RLG), for instance.

It is always good to hear of government watchdogs working to protect the people’s interest. It is just sad to note that thousands have already suffered.