The outcome of an investigation by the European Scientific Committee on merging health risks on potential health effects caused by metal ions is expected shortly.
In July the HSE stated that it was ordering a review of all patients fitted with metal-on-metal artificial hips. Approximately 8,000 patients in Ireland have had metal-on-metal implants. Letters with guidance about how to proceed with reviewing patients affected have been issued to hospitals and all those affected would be contacted directly by their hospitals.
Approximately 3,500 ASR hips have been implanted in Ireland. All patients who received these implants have been reviewed and over 400 have had revision surgery to date.
Increased revision rates have been associated with large diameter head metal-on-metal hip implants. Device wear is also experienced with hip replacement implants over time when femoral head and acetabular cup component surfaces rotate against each other. With a metal-on-metal hip system this can lead to the production and accumulation of cobalt and chromium metal ions within the area surrounding the implant.
Liam Moloney of Moloney & Co Solicitors is representing many patients who have received the ASR hip implant and commented about the study today “many patients have had significant reactions to these materials that have lead to problems such as local bone and tissue reactions. Many patients have already undergone expensive revision surgeries.”
If you or a family member is affected by the DePuy ASR implant please feel free to contact Moloney & Co Solicitors today for further advice.
