A number doctors and inventors have tried making and improving existing hip prostheses to relieve the pain and discomfort of having orthopaedic conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Several materials have been used to manufacture them. However, an entirely perfect hip implant is yet to be created. More modern devices have emerged improving the condition of those who underwent hip replacement surgery but with them, some cons are still present. The DePuy hip replacement recall of the ASR XL Acetabular and the ASR Hip Resurfacing System indicates that we have still a long way to go until inventors could produce a flawless implant.
Ceramic-on-ceramic: A more durable implant against wear compared to plastic-on-metal devices, this type of prosthesis is prone to breakage. Ceramics are smooth and hard. A loud squeaking may be heard from this implant.
Metal-on-plastic: This device is favored by most. It consists of a metal ball and socket with a plastic liner situated in between. Despite its popularity, this implant produces the most wear. A different type of metal-on-plastic implant that uses metal and highly crosslinked polyethylene material has a kind of plastic designed to be more resistant to wear. The problem is, the same procedure that makes it resistant also reduces its tensile strength.
Metal-on-highly crosslinked polyethelene: This type of configuration is fundamentally the same concept as metal-on-plastic; however, crosslinking of the polyethylene adds stability and durability to the implant. Because of this, the metal-on-crosslinked polyethylene has largely replaced the less durable metal-on-plastic making it an ideal choice for young, active patients
Metal-on-metal: From the name, this device is made up of a metal ball and socket. Recipients of this implant could enjoy an active lifestyle for this prosthesis is strong and durable. Despite its strength, metal-on-metal implants have been known to produce particles that could lead to muscle, nerve and bone damage. They release toxic metal ions that cause pain and swelling in the hip area.
DePuy implants' major issue was in its material and design. The device does not implant the way it should causing it to protrude at an angle and producing a chisel-like effect. In turn, it releases metal debris that accounts for the pain and complications the hip recall victims undergo. Filing a hip replacement lawsuit should be one of the first steps to take if you've received a DePuy implant. To know more about the types of hip replacements especially DePuy's, visit the hip replacement information center today.
