Different prosthetic designs have been created for people requiring hip replacement procedures.  Each patient has different needs depending on their activity level, and the nature of their hip disorder.  Younger people can still be more active, and thus require a hip prosthetic that can handle the rigors of more physical activity.  Therefore, metal-on-metal prosthetics have been invented as an alternative to previous prosthetic models that used polyethylene.  In addition to being constructed from different materials, the metal-on-metal design also features a larger bearing diameter.  This larger diameter allows for a greater range of motion, which is also highly desirable for more active patients.

Research was conducted on the effectiveness of these new metal-on-metal hip prosthetic designs by C.L. Brockett et al.  The study report is titled “The influence of clearance of friction, lubrication and squeaking in large diameter metal-on-metal hip replacements” and was published in the Journal of Material Science: Materials in Medicine in 2008.   The researchers stated that “The aim of this study was to compare the lubrication and friction of surface replacements with three different clearances, whilst noting the incidence of ‘squeaking’ and assessing the sound generated.”

Thus far, clinical data of metal-on-metal hip prosthetics have shown excellent short-to-mid-term results, though squeaking has often been reported up to two years after implantation.  This study employed a hip friction simulator to examining the influence of clearance on friction, lubrication, and squeaking.  Models with the largest clearance bearings proved to have the highest friction factor under all test conditions.  While all bearings exhibited squeaking, it was also the highest in the largest clearance bearings.  The researchers concluded that the data suggest “that increasing the bearing clearance results in reduced lubricant film thickness, increased friction and an increased incidence of squeaking.”

Due to the fact that DePuy, the manufacturer of some of the world’s most popular metal-on-metal hip replacement systems, had time and again failed to warn users of risks associated with the use of their devices, a number of DePuy ASR hip replacement lawsuits have been filed.  If you or a loved one used a metal-on-metal hip implant by DePuy, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation for any injuries that have occurred as a result of its use.  For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of DePuy ASR hip replacement lawyers at the information provided below.  We have the experience, skills, and resources required to win the justice you deserve.  Call today and see how we can help!

(855)  452 – 5529

justinian@dangerousdrugs.us

Our DePuy ASR™ / ASR™ XL Hip Replacement Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about DePuy ASR metal-on-metal hip replacements.