Hip replacements are a common medical procedure used to improve mobility and reduce pain in patients suffering from hip joint damage or disease. While hip replacement surgery has been performed for decades, the materials used in the implants have evolved over time. One type of implant that has gained popularity in recent years is metal-on-metal (MoM) hip implants. While MoM hip implants offer certain benefits over other types of implants, they also pose significant dangers that patients should be aware of before undergoing surgery.
MoM hip implants consist of a ball and socket joint, where both parts are made of metal. The ball, usually made of cobalt-chromium or titanium, rotates inside the metal socket. Unlike other hip implants, which use
metal and plastic components, MoM implants are designed to last longer, as the metal parts are more durable than their plastic counterparts. Additionally, MoM implants are thought to produce less wear debris and friction than other types of hip implants, resulting in a lower risk of implant failure.
However, despite these benefits, MoM hip implants have been associated with several serious health risks. One of the most significant risks is metallosis, a type of metal poisoning caused by the release of metal ions from the implant into the surrounding tissue and bloodstream. Metallosis can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, inflammation, tissue death, and bone loss. In severe cases, metallosis can lead to implant failure and the need for revision surgery.
MoM hip implants are also more prone to dislocation than other types of hip implants. This is because the metal-on-metal design can cause the implant to become less stable over time, leading to instability and dislocation. Patients with MoM hip implants may experience pain, discomfort, and difficulty walking or moving as a result of implant dislocation.
Another potential danger of MoM hip implants is the risk of pseudotumors, which are non-cancerous growths that can form around the implant. These growths are caused by the body’s immune response to the metal debris released by the implant. Pseudotumors can cause pain, inflammation, and tissue damage, and in severe cases, may require revision surgery to remove the growth.
While MoM hip implants offer certain benefits over other types of hip implants, they also pose significant dangers that patients should be aware of before undergoing surgery. If you are considering a hip replacement, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of different types of implants with your doctor to make an informed decision about the best option for your individual needs. Additionally, if you have already undergone hip replacement surgery with a MoM implant, it is important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience any signs of metallosis, implant dislocation, or pseudotumors.
Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor can help identify any potential issues with your implant early, allowing for prompt treatment and potentially preventing further complications.
If you have already received a MoM hip implant and are experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may recommend tests, such as blood or imaging tests, to check for metallosis or pseudotumors. If you are diagnosed with metallosis or pseudotumors, your doctor may recommend revision surgery to remove the implant and replace it with a different type of implant.
While MoM hip implants may offer certain benefits, such as increased durability, patients should be aware of the potential risks associated with these types of implants. Patients considering a hip replacement should discuss the risks and benefits of different types of implants with their doctor to make an informed decision about the best option for their individual needs. For those who have already received a MoM hip implant, it is important to monitor symptoms closely and seek medical attention if any issues arise.
At Paul Boone Law, we understand the devastating impact that metal-on-metal hip implants can have on individuals and their families. We have seen firsthand the harm that these defective medical devices can cause, and we are committed to helping our clients seek justice and recover compensation for their injuries.
Our team of experienced attorneys has a deep understanding of the complexities of defective medical device cases, and we have a proven track record of success in representing clients who have been injured by metal-on-metal hip implants. We are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate representation to our clients, and we work tirelessly to ensure that their rights are protected every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has experienced complications from a metal-on-metal hip implant, we can help. We will conduct a thorough investigation into your case, gathering evidence and working with medical experts to build a strong case on your behalf. We will negotiate with insurance companies and fight for the compensation you deserve, whether through settlement negotiations or in the courtroom.
At Paul Boone Law, we believe that everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That is why we offer our services on a contingency fee basis, which means that you do not pay anything unless we recover compensation for you. We also offer free case evaluations, so you can speak with one of our attorneys about your case without any obligation or cost.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a metal-on-metal hip implant, do not wait to seek legal assistance. Contact the attorneys at Paul Boone Law today to schedule your free case evaluation and learn more about how we can help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve.