An new study indicates that new generation, metal on metal and ceramic on ceramic, artificial hip devices might be linked to increased revision surgery rates and do not provide significant benefits over older generation devices.

Believed a better option over older devices, surgeons are using all metal and all ceramic devices with greater frequency; however, recent reports and recalls reveal that some newer devices fail at significantly higher rates than promised, leading to more revision surgeries. Revision involves removal of a faulty device and replacement with a new device, and is painful and complex and relies on reduced bone and tissue mass.

BMJ Group conducted a systematic review of clinical trials, observational studies, global registries, and pre- and post-market studies at the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) ensuring an extensive safety and efficacy review, that appropriate and thorough independent studies were reviewed and confirmed with criteria inclusion, and that comparative studies and qualitative data synthesis were completed. The research revealed some registries indicated that all metal and all ceramic devices were linked to increased revision reports versus older metal on polyethylene devices.

Metal on metal bearings presented the promise of reduced dislocation and better performance; however, the United Kingdom’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency exposed severe metallosis (metal ion accumulation in the tissues) linked to the devices’ metal parts wearing on each other, releasing shavings into patients’ bodies. In 2010 Johnson and Johnson’s DePuy unit recalled over 93,000 of its metal-on-metal ASR implants and is facing a growing number of lawsuits over this and another similar device, the Pinnacle, over issues with metallosis, decreased ambulation, pain, swelling, masses, and joint dislocation, to name some.

If you have been implanted with one of these defective devices, you should immediately seek advice from a lawyer that is knowledgeable about the DePuy hip implant recall and the injuries associated with these hip implants. For a free consultation with such an attorney, complete the form to the right or call 212-566-1000. Based in New York City, Sullivan & Brill, LLP represents clients throughout the United States.