FDA Sees Little Use for Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants

As the evidence -- such as high failure rates -- mounts against metal-on-metal hip implants, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is now saying that there are few reasons for surgeons to continue using the medical devices.

However, the 18-member advisory panel convened last week by the FDA to discuss the safety of metal-on-metal hip implants held back from suggesting a ban of the medical devices, according to the Associated Press (AP).

The FDA panel did suggest guidelines for monitoring more than a half-million U.S. patients with metal-on-metal hip replacements, according to the AP, including yearly X-rays and blood tests to measure metal levels.

Metal-on-metal hips were originally promoted as being more durable and long-lasting than older models that used plastic or ceramic. However, various studies from the UK and other nations have found the implants to be more likely to deteriorate and expose patients to higher levels of chromium, cobalt, and other metals, writes the AP.

For example, after several clinical studies revealed high failure rates and adverse reaction incidence rates, Johnson & Johnson's DePuy Orthopedics in 2010 recalled its ASR Hip Resurfacing System as well as its ASR XL Acetabular System. Other metal-on-metal systems have been recalled or removed from the market by other manufacturers as well.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a metal-on-metal hip replacement, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a product liability lawyer may be able to help you. For legal help, call (800) 581-6358.

Tags: