The first ever hip plants were used back in the 1930’s by Dr. Philip Wiles. Technology has greatly improved since Dr. Wiles used stainless steel implants but there are still health concerns surrounding hip implants. Early implants had a relatively low chance of success due to available technology of the time, and while successful operations are common in the modern era, one health concern is metal poisoning from tiny particles that break off from the implant. Normal wear an implant might encounter may be all that is necessary for these tiny metal particles to break off and enter the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream they can cause severe tissue death and tumors to develop. Replacement surgery can be painful and cause further stress on the patient’s body.
Author C. Lowry Barnes wrote an article titled “Differential Hardness Bearings in Hip Arthroplasty”, where it is stated “Second-generation metal-an-metal (MOM) bearing couples produce less wear debris than first generation implants due to a better understanding of design parameters coupled with improved manufacturing processes.” Differential Hardening bearings are becoming more and more popular due to the fact that they generate less wear debris than the older metal on polyethylene style bearings. Using harder and more durable material for the construction of hip implants makes them safer and gives them the ability to last longer.
Long term use of hip implants are important because many of the people undergoing these operations are less than 60 years old and will be actively using and putting stress on their implant for many years. C. Lowry Barnes further states that “Laboratory testing has demonstrated that DH bearings exhibited less abrasive, adhesive, and surface fatigue damage than previous-generation MOM bearing couples”. The medical community is striving for new and better implant options for people and want to reduce the risks associated with hip implants. The differential hardness bearing system may lead to an all around safe and reliable product.
Unfortunately, a number of people have used metal-on-metal hip replacement systems unaware of the risks associated with these devices. If you or a loved one used one and suffered complications, however, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation from the manufacturer for your undue injury. Devices most associated with failure and complications are the DePuy ASR and ASRXL, but many other metal hip replacement systems also fail. For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of DePuy ASR lawyers at the information provided below. We have the skills, resources, and experience required to win the justice you deserve.
(855) 452 – 5529
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.