November 25, 2016 - After little more than two years on the market, Stryker issued a recall for the ABGII and the Rejuvenate, citing higher-than-normal Stryker hip failure rates as well as excessive fretting and corrosion. When fretting and corrosion occurs in those with metal hip implants, tiny metal ions can shear away from the device, causing symptoms of Stryker hip metallosis and/or Stryker hip metal toxicity.
The Increase in the Number of Pseudotumors among those with Metal Hip Implants
The increase in the number of metal hip devices being implanted in patients has proportionately increased the incidence of pseudotumors. Pseudotumors are masses which grow close to the metal hip device, and can be almost solid or semi-liquid. The pseudotumors can be as small as a ping pong ball or larger than an orange. In most all cases, the pseudotumors are not infectious, nor are they cancerous, however they can press on surrounding body organs and structures, causing further problems.
As many as twenty-five percent of patients with a metal hip implant develop a pseudotumor, however most of them are unaware of the pseudotumor’s existence until it reaches a significant size. Pain can be one of the first indicators of a pseudotumor, however many patients experience such levels of pain prior to their original implant surgery, they may not be as aware of the pain. Other symptoms of a pseudotumor include an obvious lump in the area (usually only after it is quite large), a popping or clicking noise when walking or engaging in physical activities, severe inflammation in the ankle, foot or upper leg, muscle weakness or immobility.
Pseudotumors can require Stryker Metal Hip Implant Revision Surgery
Many doctors believe patients who are particularly sensitive to cobalt and chromium and other heavy metals will be more likely to develop a pseudotumor than those who are not as sensitive. A Stryker hip pseudotumor can be accompanied by tissue and bone degradation and necrosis. When the patient undergoes surgery in order to remove the pseudotumor, it can explode. Pseudotumors can be severe enough to require revision surgery. Metal hip implants which are not perfectly positioned may be more likely to result in pseudotumor growth. Smaller-boned women are also more likely to develop pseudotumors than larger-boned women or men.
You may wonder how your doctor could know you have a growing pseudotumor, absent any of the above symptoms. X-rays, in conjunction with blood tests and a multi-slice CT scan can help determine the presence of a pseudotumor, and, in some cases, your doctor may aspirate fluid from the hip joint to determine the presence or absence of infection. You may have suffered a Stryker hip pseudotumor as well as Stryker hip infection, chromium and cobalt blood poisoning or Stryker hip metallosis. Any of these issues can result in the necessity of a Stryker ABGII revision surgery or a Stryker Rejuvenate revision surgery. A highly qualified Stryker hip attorney can discuss the particulars of your Stryker hip implant with you, helping you determine whether a Stryker hip lawsuit is in your best interests, or whether you may be able to participate in the Stryker hip settlement agreement.