The New York Times published an article this week on hip resurfacing and how a key proponent of that medical technique has seemed to withdraw its support through its most recent findings. Langdon & Emison handles hip replacement litigation related to the DePuy ASR replacement hip system.
"The group, the California Technology Assessment Forum, reversed a position it took just last year, citing recent findings by orthopedic registries overseas that some resurfacing devices are failing prematurely and health concerns about metallic debris released as the devices wear," the Times report stated. "The findings of the forum, which is financed by the Blue Shield of California Foundation, are not binding. Still, the group’s report is likely to be disputed by advocates of resurfacing and patients who say they have benefited from the procedure."
With Johnson & Johnson recalling its DePuy Orthopedics division's ASR XL Acetabular Head System and ASR Hip Resurfacing System, the news is seen as a potential blow to the metal-on-metal implant market. The metal-on-metal construction of the ASR artificial hip allows grinding, and thus metal particles enter the surrounding tissue. The following symptoms could indicate a serious problem with an artificial hip:
- Serious/Chronic Pain
- Inflammation
- Loosening of the Implant, with Possible Detachment
- Dislocation of the Hip Implant
- Fracture of the Bone Around the Hip Implant