If you are the recipient of a DePuy Pinnacle hip implant—particularly when used with an Ultamet metal-on-metal Pinnacle liner—you may already be aware of some of the adverse health issues associated with this hip implant device. On the other hand, many Pinnacle patients are not aware of potential Pinnacle problems because the implant has not yet been recalled. With over 150,000 DePuy Pinnacle hip implants sold since receiving FDA approval in 2000, many are wondering why the Pinnacle—with many of the same issues as the recalled ASR—is still on the market. Like the DePuy ASR, the Pinnacle and the Ultamet metal-on-metal Pinnacle liner can result in DePuy Pinnacle metallosis and chromium and cobalt poisoning.
What is DePuy Pinnacle Metallosis?
Metallosis occurs when metal particles are released into the tissues surrounding the hip implant due to friction between the metal components. Medical professionals recommend patients with an Ultamet metal-on-metal Pinnacle liner have regular blood tests to determine whether elevated levels of cobalt and chromium are present. Symptoms of DePuy Pinnacle metallosis include the accumulation of fluids in the area, development of pseudo-tumors around the implant, inflammation, pain in the hip, groin or thigh region, loosening of the ball and socket components or hip implant dislocation. Metal toxicity can result in cardiovascular, neurological, renal, thyroid and gastrointestinal disorders, loss of vision and hearing, loss of short-term memory, the development of pseudo-tumors, DNA disruption, irritability, depression, anxiety, reproductive disorders and certain types of cancers.
Should You Consider Revision Surgery?
Revision surgery, although it seems the logical answer, must be carefully considered. The revision procedure is complex, risky and painful, and can affect your future quality-of-life. A revision surgical procedure can last as long as five hours, leaving the patient more susceptible to blood loss, infection and nerve damage, and requiring a recovery period of six weeks or longer. In some cases hip fracture can occur during revision surgery, requiring the patient to remain in a wheelchair until the surgeon is able to re-build the bone and implant a new—hopefully safer—device.
Is the Pinnacle Safe?
While the Pinnacle was advertised as lasting from 10-15 years, many patients have seen their DePuy Pinnacle hip implant fail within 1-2 years. Despite the numerous adverse reports received by the FDA, the Pinnacle remains on the market, although the Ultamet metal liner was removed from the market in mid-2013. The company continues to maintain the Pinnacle is both safe, and properly designed, despite the more than 4,000 lawsuits currently pending against DePuy for injuries to patients from the Pinnacle hip implant.
Speak to Your Physician Before Considering Revision Surgery
If you are wondering whether you should have your Ultimet metal-on-metal Pinnacle liner removed and replaced, it is a good idea to discuss the issue thoroughly with your doctor after having specific tests to determine whether you have suffered harm from the device. Blood tests to measure your cobalt and chromium levels, x-rays and an MRI are all indicated in this situation. Should your doctor recommend revision surgery, it is important that you ensure the removed component parts are preserved in the event you decide to pursue a DePuy Pinnacle lawsuit. It can be to your benefit to discuss your Pinnacle issues with an experienced DePuy Pinnacle hip lawyer.