Stryker metal poisoning symptoms can come without warning for those patients with a recalled Stryker Rejuvenate or ABGII metal hip implant. Patients who received a Rejuvenate or ABGII Stryker hip implant device following FDA approval for the devices in 2008 and 2009, believed these devices had been tested and were safe. In fact, literature for the devices assured patients that the innovative new design and the use of a ceramic ball made the Rejuvenate and ABGII much safer and long-lasting than the true all-metal hip devices. Unfortunately Stryker metal poisoning symptoms and metallosis symptoms were reported by patients soon after receiving their Stryker hip implant.
At the time of the recall, Stryker stated that excessive fretting and corrosion could occur in these two models, leading to metal ion debris shedding into the body. This metal ion debris, in turn, caused inflammation, infection, destruction of bone and tissue and Stryker metal poisoning systems. Stryker metal poisoning symptoms occur when the cobalt and chromium metal ions enter the bloodstream; both metals are extremely toxic to human beings although some appear to tolerate higher levels better than others. When the levels of cobalt and chromium build up in the bloodstream, a wide range of serious Stryker metal poisoning symptoms can occur, including:
· Diminishment of vision and hearing
· Gastrointestinal disorders
· Depression, irritability and anxiety
· Cardiovascular, renal, thyroid and neurological issues
· Short-term memory loss
· Vertigo
· Rashes
· The formation of pseudo-tumors
· Reproductive disorders
· DNA disruption
· An increase in certain cancers
Despite the ceramic ball design of the Rejuvenate and ABGII, the metal neck juncture is a prime spot for corrosion to occur. Further, the small metal trunnions, located on either end of the neck piece can trap body fluids, leading to corrosion and Stryker metal poisoning symptoms. While Stryker metal poisoning symptoms are extremely serious, there is no way to confirm the levels of metals in the bloodstream without a blood test. Some orthopedic surgeons consider any level of cobalt in the bloodstream over 5 micrograms to be toxic, and certainly capable of causing Stryker metal poisoning symptoms.
In the absence of specific Stryker metal poisoning symptoms, some physicians counsel their patients to refrain from revision surgery until the levels of cobalt reach at least 7 micrograms. Cobalt is not an accumulating metal; it is stored in the liver and processed out through urine. In theory, this means that once a recalled Stryker hip implant is removed, the Stryker metal poisoning symptoms should begin to recede. If the levels of cobalt have caused the body’s inflammatory process to kick in, more serious ailments could have begun and the Stryker metal poisoning symptoms may persist. Unlike cobalt, chromium is retained in the body’s tissues.
Depending on the overall health of the patient, the Stryker metal poisoning symptoms may persist as the body could have a difficult time processing the chromium ions, particularly if the kidneys have been damaged. Whether a Stryker implant recipient has currently exhibited Stryker metal poisoning symptoms, they must have regular blood tests in order to monitor their levels of heavy metals. It can be beneficial to the person with Stryker metal poisoning symptoms to discuss the specific details of their case with a qualified Stryker attorney.