There have been further reported concerns in the news recently regarding the safety of hip joint replacements and specifically those involving metal on metal implants. These implants involve using metal to replace both the socket and the ball of the hip joint.

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It is reported that as the two pieces of metal move against each other, fragments of the metal can detach and can then move into the blood stream. This can damage both the bone and the muscle and can lead to systemic toxicity which is essentially poisoning of the body.

If this does happen then it is likely that patients will need revision surgery, meaning that the original implant will need to be removed and a new implant inserted. Obviously this results in further pain and suffering, inconvenience and potential complications for patients.

The problems have led to the manufacturer, DePuy International Ltd (a division of Johnson and Johnson) issuing a worldwide recall of the implants. There are reportedly some 30,000 patients in the UK who have undergone a hip replacement using a ‘metal on metal’ implant and in a recent study by the Daily Telegraph involving 500 patients, it was found that 50% required hip revision surgery after 6 years rather than the usual 15 years in other hip replacements. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency is currently investigating concerns into the safety of the product.

Annual Checkups

It is recommended that patients who have undergone a hip replacement using a metal on metal implant should attend annual checkups for five years following surgery. Those experiencing abnormal pain, inflammation of the joint or deteriorating hip function should also have a blood test to test for levels of cobalt and chromium in the blood and an MRI scan to check for soft tissue reactions.

If you have been fitted with a metal on metal implant and you are experiencing pain or inflammation in your joint or you have had to undergo revision surgery then please do not hesitate to contact one of our specialist team of Clinical Negligence Solicitors on 0114 218 4000 to discuss investigating a potential clinical negligence case.

What can I do now?

The value of your claim will depend on a number of factors including:

  • The nature of the injury or illness
  • Whether your child (or you) recover fully from the injury or illness or if it has a long term effect on their health and wellbeing
  • The amount of any losses you incur as a result of the injury

You can claim compensation for the following things if they are a result of your injury:

  • Pain, suffering and loss of amenity
  • Loss of earnings
  • Medical and nursing care costs
  • Special equipment needed to carry out daily activities and any costs involved in adapting your home
  • Other expenses incurred as a result of your injury, for example, travel expenses incurred whilst receiving medical treatment

Contact us to speak to one of our specialist lawyers in total confidence and they will discuss the details of your claim.

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