The Serious Health Problems Related With Stryker Rejuvenate & ABG II Hip Systems

The two hip replacement system product recall ordered by Stryker in July 2012 was due to the adverse health issues caused by the metal parts included in the hip system device. Rejuvenate and ABG II modular-neck hip stem systems are the two device being ordered for recall. Stryker Corporation will also cease the production and distribution of the two hip implant systems.

These devices have similar reported side effects in using metal-on-metal degradation, metal poisoning and failed implant of the hip system. Many recall orders for metal-on-metal hip implants are already being implemented.

As reflected on the recall’s information ordered by Stryker, the post-sale evaluation implied that the dismissed devices are possibly apt for metal component deterioration. Specifically, the wearing out of the modular – neck stem can result to implant sore, muscle swelling and other serious complications.

Most hip implant systems have a one-piece design involving the femoral neck and stem. The Stryker Rejuvenate and ABG II on the other hand are designed with detachable neck and stem metal components made of chromium, cobalt, and titanium alloy.

As these two metal components rub each other every time a person moves, the friction can result to disposing small metal fragments into the body. This is similar with the issue faced by the metal ball-and-socket design. Metallosis can develop if a metal ion is deposited into the body’s soft tissues, veins, or bones of the patient who went through the implant. A study have shown that the chromium and cobalt ions found in the metal debris can injure various internal organs like the kidney, lymph nodes, spleen, and liver. Different research indicated the relation of metallosis with neurologicall and cardiac failures.

In other words, metallosis can  lead to the necrosis of the soft tissues around the hip implant. When metal fragments are deposited over a long period of time into the soft body tissue, the larger the damage could get.

Some patient can suffer from several lump growths beneath the skin. These lumps are sacs filled with fluid made by the immune system to prevent the metal ion from poisoning the body.

In the previous years, a stryker hip replacement lawsuit has grown in numbers. Many patients have filed their hip implant product liability complaints in the hopes of financial compensation. It is greatly advised for injured patients to seek immediate legal counsel as soon as the first symptoms of hip implant failure is observed.