In 2013, a medical research team led by F. Randelli published an article in which it is stated “Patients with ASR implants (resurfacing and large-diameter (XL) metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasty), even if asymptomatic and with a stable prosthesis, may present extremely high blood metal ion levels.”  This article was titled “Radiographically undetectable periprosthetic osteolysis with ASR implants: the implication of blood metal ions.” and appears in the September 2013 edition of The Journal of Arthroplasty.

For clarity, “ASR implants” refers to two different kinds of metal-on-metal hip replacement systems offered by DePuy Orthopaedics, Inc., both of which were recalled in 2010.  These are the ASR (Articulated Surface Replacement), used in hip resurfacing procedures, and the ASRXL, used in total hip arthroplasty.

This research team studied 14 ASR revision (implant replacement) procedures, “focusing on osteolysis and their radiographic correspondence and their correlation with blood metal ion levels.” (hyperlink added)

“At revision, seven hips revealed severe periacetabular osteolysis which was radiographically undetectable in six and asymptomatic in five. Seven hips with no acetabular osteolysis had significantly lower serum Cr and Co ion concentrations (respectively 25.2, 41.1 μg/l) compared to the seven hips with severe acetabular bone loss (respectively 70.1, 147.0 μg/l).”

As such, the team concluded “Elevated blood metal ion levels should be considered as a warning of undetectable and ongoing periprosthetic osteolysis in asymptomatic patients with ASR prosthesis.”

If you or a loved one used DePuy ASR hip replacement and suffered osteolysis, elevated blood metal ion levels, femoral fracture, premature device failure, or another ASR complication, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation through a DePuy ASR lawsuit.  The problem is that DePuy grossly underestimated the risk rates for these complications, and as a result, many people entered into ASR replacement procedures unaware of the risks they faced.

For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of DePuy ASR lawyers at the information provided below.  We have the compassion, resources, and experience 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.