The recalled Stryker ABGII and Rejuvenate—along with other recalled metal-on-metal hip implants—have been linked to tissue necrosis surrounding the implant. Although the body stores a certain level of cobalt and chromium for healthy cellular function, when metal implant components rub against one another, cobalt and chromium ions are released into the surrounding tissues and bloodstream, creating potentially toxic levels in the body. When these metals build up near the joint, the body can become overwhelmed by the levels of heavy metals, creating a number of serious complications.
Tissue Reactions in those with a Stryker Rejuvenate or ABGII metal hip implant
According to Dr. James W. Pritchett, MD of Orthopedics International, one of the more common side effects among those with metal hip implants are tissue “reactions.” These reactions can come in the form of pseudo-tumors, which are benign, inflammatory masses in response to cobalt absorption. Upon histological analysis of the removed pseudo-tumors, tissue necrosis is often evident. Even when pseudo-tumors are not present, a patient’s tissue reaction to the increased levels of cobalt and chromium can be tissue necrosis, and surgeons can find “thickened, fibrotic soft tissues,” with the underlying bone having a “dead appearing surface.”
Asymptomatic Patients
While many patients who are experiencing tissue necrosis in response to a Stryker Rejuvenate or ABGII hip implant will experience pain and inflammation, others may not. In “Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants: The Clinical Issues,” a panel of physicians discuss the importance of follow-up testing among Stryker hip patients due to the fact that at least some of these patients will be asymptomatic, even though they may be experiencing significant levels of tissue necrosis. Dr. C. Anderson Engh, Jr., MD, notes that particularly for recalled hip implants with known dangers, “orthopedic surgeons need to be active in seeking symptoms in our patients with THA’s.” (total hip replacement devices).
Dr. Engh feels that because many patients who undergo hip replacement surgery were in a significant amount of pain prior to the surgery, these patients may be less likely to notice symptoms of pain and swelling after the surgery which could indicate tissue necrosis. Dr. Engh believes simply looking at an x-ray is not sufficient and advises obtaining serial radiographs for all patients. “Osteolysis should always raise concern, even in the asymptomatic patient…any osteolysis seen around the metal hip within the first ten years warrants further evaluation.”
Advocating for Your Health as a Recipient of a Recalled Stryker Hip Device
Not all physicians will be as proactive in guarding your health as others, therefore it is your responsibility, as the recipient of a recalled Stryker ABGII or Rejuvenate, to ensure you are properly informed. Even if you have not suffered serious, adverse health symptoms related to your Rejuvenate or ABGII, based on the experience of orthopedic surgeons, you could still be undergoing tissue damage and necrosis. More than 20,000 Stryker Rejuvenate and ABGII hip implants were sold between their release in early 2010 and the recall in July, 2012. Over 4,000 recipients of these recalled implants filed suit against Stryker, and Stryker is currently attempting a settlement for all those patients who have undergone revision surgery. It is to your advantage to speak to a qualified physician regarding medical tests you need as well as to an experienced Stryker hip attorney who can help you determine the best course of action for your particular situation.