In a 2011 report by AJ Hart et al. published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, researchers write “Many factors affect the blood metal ion levels after metal-on-metal (MOM) hip arthroplasty” and “The main surgically adjustable variable is the amount of coverage of the head provided by the cup which is a function of the inclination and version angles.”

However, the team notes that “most studies have used plain radiographs which have questionable precision and accuracy” and accordingly, states that “the relationship between version and blood metal ions levels has not been resolved.”

To determine “whether cup inclination and version influence blood metal ion levels,” this research team studied 100 patients who had a metal-on-metal hip replacement, and reviewed “clinical assessment[s], CT scanning, and blood metal ion measurement[s]” for these individuals.

Using a statistical analysis method called regression analysis, Hart et al. (2011) found that “Only cup inclination, version angles, and gender influenced blood cobalt or chromium levels” in the blood, and that “Cobalt and chromium levels positively correlated with inclination angle and negatively correlated with version angle.”

Concluding that their research suggested “insufficient cup version can cause high blood metal ions after MOM hip arthroplasty”, the Hart et al. (2011) research is very important.  A great deal of research has been published in the last decade showing that metal-on-metal hip implants may leak metal ions into the blood, posing a variety of health risks, and any methods for reducing the leaking of metal ions into the blood are invaluable.

Sadly, DePuy Orthopaedics, Inc., a major manufacturer of metal-on-metal hips such as the recently-recalled ASR / ASR XL hip replacement systems, failed time and again to warn users of this risk and the risk for premature device failure associated with their devices.  As a result of this failure to warn, even in light of the number of publications demonstrating the danger associated with the DePuy ASR hip replacement systems, a number of DePuy ASR lawsuits have been filed.

If you or a loved one used an ASR hip replacement and suffered elevated blood metal ion levels or premature ASR failure, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation.  For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of DePuy ASR lawyers at the information provided below.  We have the experience, resources, and skills 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.