Following the recall of many metal hip implants, those implanted with a recalled Stryker Rejuvenate or ABGII hip device have questions regarding Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms. A primary concern facing the American public centers around metal hip implants leading to Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms and the threat of metallosis. The explosion of artificial hip implantation is largely due to an aging Baby Boomer generation who desire an active lifestyle. Stryker introduced two models with a particularly innovative design, claiming the Rejuvenate and ABGII would easily last 15-20 years.
Unlike other all-metal hip implants, the two Stryker implants utilized a ceramic ball. It was believed this change would drastically cut the risk of Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms, as there would be much less metal surface area to create friction. In the recall notice, Stryker stated a higher-than-normal failure rate due to fretting, corrosion, and excessive metal ion debris. While Stryker declined to state just what the actual failure rate was, after patients suffered Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms, independent reports place that number as high as 40%.
Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms can occur when the cobalt and chromium neck portion rubs against the titanium stem, causing tiny metal ions to shear away. These microscopic metal shards can settle into the surrounding hip tissues or travel to the bloodstream. Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms occurs when the metal shards enter the bloodstream, while metallosis occurs when the metal ions find their way into the hip tissue. Cobalt and chromium ions in the hip tissue can lead to chronic hip pain, infection, severe inflammation, bone loss and the destruction of hip tissue. When this occurs, the implant will loosen, many times failing completely—and without warning. Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms include:
· Cardiovascular, renal, thyroid and neurological issues, including cardiomyopathy
· Anxiety, depression and irritability
· Diminished vision and hearing—or in some cases, total loss of vision and hearing
· Gastrointestinal disorders
· Skin rashes
· Vertigo and other balance issues
· Short-term memory loss
· DNA disruption
· Formation of certain cancers
· Pseudo-tumor formation
· Reproductive disorders
Pseudo-tumors are masses of inflamed cells which resemble tumors but are actually fluid pockets; these tumors must be removed from the hip area and usually follow other Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms. It has been found that Stryker metal on metal poisoning symptoms typically occur more often in women who are particularly small, or women who are obese as these body structure types create more tension on the implant, resulting in more metal shear and a higher rate of metal poisoning.
Stryker utilized a titanium stem and cobalt and chromium neck, spraying them with a proprietary powder. Activity among the implant patients, however, simply caused the powder spray to wear away, allowing considerable friction at the neck juncture. Rejuvenate or ABGII implant recipients who have suffered Stryker metal on
should see their physician and have regular blood tests done to measure metal levels. It could be beneficial to patients to visit with a legal professional as well in order to determine what options are available.