What are the Short & Long Term Effects of Stryker Rejuvenate Chromium and Cobalt Exposure?

April 21, 2016 - Most metal hip implants use cobalt and chromium for at least part of the device. In the case of the Stryker Rejuvenate, Stryker chose to pair a cobalt and chromium neck component with a titanium stem. Patients with a metal hip implant who engage in any type of activity—even walking—will cause the metal components of the hip implant to rub against one another, causing tiny metal ions to shear away from the device. These metal ions either bury themselves deeply into the surrounding hip tissues, or they make their way to the patient’s bloodstream.

Either way, the patient will experience a buildup of toxic cobalt and chromium ions, with potentially dangerous consequences. Some patients with relatively low levels of cobalt and chromium may experience severe side effects, while those with higher levels may not yet be experiencing serious health issues. In general, those who are more sensitive to heavy metals are likely to experience more severe Stryker hip side effects than others, although any buildup of cobalt and chromium can result in eventual negative health effects.

Chromium Poisoning Resulting from a Stryker Rejuvenate Hip Device

Although many of the symptoms for chromium and cobalt poisoning are the same, there are some differences. Chromium VI is found in such things as automotive parts, stainless steel and medical implants, while Chromium III is used in microscopic amounts as a dietary supplement. The body attempts, through the liver and kidneys, to rid itself of toxic amounts of chromium, however this heavy metal can impair the ability of these organs to purify the blood. Chromium poisoning can cause the following symptoms when it reaches dangerous levels, or even sooner for the person who has metal sensitivities:

·         Disorders of the reproductive system;

·         Diminishment of hearing;

·         Vision impairment;

·         Destruction of the liver;

·         Severe levels of inflammation;

·         Respiratory issues such as asthma and shortness of breath;

·         Kidney impairment or failure;

·         Pseudotumor development;

·         Impairment of the nerves;

·         Dermatitis;

·         An increase in the risk for developing specific cancers, and

·         The inability of the body to repair DNA.

Cobalt Poisoning Symptoms Resulting from a Stryker Rejuvenate Device

Cobalt is also found in microscopic amounts in the human diet and, in fact, is crucial for the body to transport oxygen as well as for normal regulation of metabolism. Certain processes used in industrial manufacturing also use cobalt; workers who breathe cobalt dust can develop dangerous health conditions. The liver and kidneys will also work hard to rid the body of the cobalt which comes from a Rejuvenate hip device, to little avail. Common symptoms associated with cobalt poisoning include the following:

·         Cardiovascular disorders;

·         Hypothyroidism;

·         Diminishment of vision and hearing;

·         Vertigo;

·         Chronic, worsening headaches;

·         A decline in cognitive functions;

·         Changes in DNA;

·         Pseudotumor development;

·         Seizures;

·         Tremors;

·         Convulsions;

·         Rashes;

·         Muscle atrophy, and

·         Irritability, anxiety and depression.