It has become imperative for recipients of the recalled DePuy hip replacements to consult with their orthopedist to have themselves evaluated for their current health conditions. Defective units of the manufacturer's ASR XL Acetabular System and ASR Hip Resurfacing System were sold internationally and it would mean that the patients who have received the implants are at risk of health complications. Currently, victims have been filing DePuy hip lawsuits to claim damages.
When you have been implanted with an artificial hip device, it is important to make sure what brand of artificial hip was implanted in your body. Your surgeon or the hospital where the surgical procedure took place could give you this information. If you find out that what you have is in fact a DePuy ASR hip replacement, you may need to undergo further testing to determine the condition of the implant.
Recipients of the ASR were instructed through DePuy's website to “…return to the surgeon’s office for a follow up visit including clinical assessment and radiographic evaluation…blood testing for cobalt and chromium ion levels…and/or a MARS MRI or ultrasound if necessary.” Any testing you may need is based on what your surgeon thinks is best. One in eight patients require revision surgery. It is also possible that toxic metal debris is deposited in your body that is why you may have to undergo more specific testing procedures. To ascertain that you may protect yourself against further damage, you may need the following tests:
- Blood test that will determine the cobalt and chromium levels in your blood. A second blood test three months later may be necessary when results show that your blood has concentrations greater than 7 parts per billion of these ions.
- Your doctor may advise you to take a MARS MRI and/or an ultrasound when results of the second blood work reveals cobalt and chromium concentrations greater than 7 parts per billion.
- A revision surgery may need to take place when there is evidence of tissue damage.
- If by chance, your cobalt and chromium blood concentrations are lower than 7 parts per billion, you might still need to be tested annually.
Inasmuch as the health aspect of the situation is very important, you should also be aware that you might have to take action against DePuy for subjecting you to these series of problems that you should not have to experience. The DePuy Hip Recall Lawsuit Site may give you the answers to some of your queries regarding the ongoing litigation.
