June 24, 2014 - Following the Stryker hip recall in July, 2012, more issues came to light regarding the risks associated with the Stryker Rejuvenate. While the company stated that Stryker hip corrosion and fretting could occur in the implant, leading to the release of microscopic metal ion debris into the body, it was not until after the Stryker hip recall that cross-ionization was found to be a factor. The neck portion of the Stryker Rejuvenate is made from cobalt and chromium, while the stem portion is constructed of titanium, covered with a proprietary blend of titanium, molybdenum, zirconium and iron.
Mismatched Components Leads to Cross-Ionization
Years before Stryker began marketing the Rejuvenate, several studies had shown that cross-ionization and corrosion occurred nearly twice as often when mismatched components were implemented. Stryker believed their proprietary coating blend would resist the effects of corrosion, however this claim turned out to have little merit. During periods of activity on the part of the patient, micro-motion, friction and corrosion can result at the neck junction where the mismatched metals meet. It is believed that because the cobalt and chromium neck is considerably harder than the titanium stem, there is a negative reaction despite the coating.
Corrosion and Cross-Ionization
Another study took a look at femoral hip components removed during revision surgery. A staggering 100% of the implants constructed of dissimilar metals showed some level of corrosion. While the metals do tend to form a stable film once implanted in the body, once that film is subjected to body fluids, it offers little protection. When blood in the region interacts with the Rejuvenate’s metal components which have released cobalt and chromium ions due to friction, the result is akin to rust on a car. Fretting and corrosion occur, more ions are released, and soon the body is being flooded by harmful cobalt and chromium ions.
Why Would Stryker Risk Cross-Ionization?
It is unclear why Stryker chose to use mismatched metals, risking cross-ionization in the Rejuvenate and ABGII in light of the significant amount of research and studies warning about using dissimilar metals. In particular, those with known kidney problems, known allergies or sensitivities to heavy metals and those with suppressed immune systems may find they experience significant health issues associated with the dissimilar metals and Stryker Rejuvenate cross-ionization.
Symptoms of Metallosis and Metal Toxicity
When the cobalt and chromium ions enter the hip tissues, metallosis can occur. Symptoms of metallosis can include severe inflammation, chronic hip, thigh or groin pain, deterioration of tissue and bone, total hip failure and the necessity of Stryker Rejuvenate revision surgery. Cobalt and chromium ions in the blood stream can result in a variety of serious health disorders including: gastrointestinal, renal, thyroid, neurological and cardiovascular issues, depression, anxiety, vertigo, irritability, skin rashes, vision and hearing impairments, reproductive disorders, the development of pseudo-tumors, infection, chronic headaches, muscle weakness and tremors, disruption of DNA and loss of memory.
Speaking to an Experienced Stryker Hip Lawyer
As of June, 2014, over 2,000 patients have filed suit against Stryker for damages suffered from a recalled Stryker Rejuvenate or ABGII. It is important that you speak to a knowledgeable Stryker hip attorney, to determine whether it is in your best interests to file a Stryker hip lawsuit. If you have suffered serious Stryker hip side effects such as Stryker Rejuvenate cross-ionization, you may be entitled to damages.