A 2012 article by I.A. Malek et al. published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery titled “The sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of raised plasma metal ion levels in the diagnosis of adverse reaction to metal debris in symptomatic patients with a metal-on-metal arthroplasty of the hip.” helps demonstrate the rate at which patients have adverse reactions to metal debris from faulty metal-on-metal hip replacement systems.

The team states that “Plasma levels of cobalt and chromium ions and Metal Artefact Reduction Sequence (MARS)-MRI scans were performed on patients with 209 consecutive, unilateral, symptomatic metal-on-metal (MoM) hip arthroplasties.”  So, this study is admittedly fairly small.

However, results were clear, showing that “scans were positive for adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) in 84 hips (40%)” and the team concluded that “Metal ion analysis is not recommended as a sole indirect screening test in the surveillance of symptomatic patients with a MoM arthroplasty. The investigating clinicians should have a low threshold for obtaining cross-sectional imaging in these patients, even in the presence of low plasma metal ion levels.”

Because DePuy, the company that makes many metal-on-metal hip replacement systems, has failed to adequately warn users of these risks, a number of DePuy ASR hip replacement lawsuits have been filed.  If you or someone you know used the DePuy ASR or ASR XL metal hip replacement, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation.  For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of 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.