Ceramic vs Metal Heads in Total Hip Replacement

[@chrisiden1]

hello, i was a terrible candidate for hip replacement due to being thin with low bone density and the doctors feared bone fracture if they tried to help me.... this was 3 years ago... today, after being injected 4 times at 6 week increments with my own living stem cells, i have improved and able to walk and get around much better... even my tissues have begun to rejuvenate... its been a long and winding road, but i am better off today than i was...

[@bondjane007]

Do U have any hip pain? How much did it cost to get stem cells to help U??

[@dtlastraightahead2133]

He doesn't mention anything about the long history of Cobalt poisoning

[@mathildathemonk9098]

Interesting, but the comparison re: corrosion only discusses the extreme of 'failure rates' (i.e. the corrosion would have to be extreme for the device to fail by corrosion); there is no discussion of the less mechanically extreme, but still significant point that the Cobalt-alloy heads poison the nervous system even if they corrode moderately. What about that (pretty important) point?

[@bondjane007]

What of the dangers of nerve damage from Cobalt in the material??

[@UntamedAustin]

SOMETHING TO CONSIDER AS THE CHOICE OF METAL OR CERAMIC BALL IS ONLY PART OF THE REPLACEMENT. SOURCE GIVEN AT END: "Risk of Metallosis from the Stryker Rejuvenate and ABGII Hip Implants The Stryker Rejuvenate and ABGII are a bit different from the all-metal hip implants in that they implement a ceramic ball rather than a metal one. Since the major problem with the metal-on-metal hip implant design is the fact that the ball and acetabular cup rub against one another causing tiny metal ions to shear away and lodge into the surrounding tissue or bloodstream, it was believed the ceramic ball of the Rejuvenate and ABGII would effectively circumvent this issue. Unfortunately, the design turned out to have some different problems however the result was the same-metal ions in the body leading to metallosis. Metallosis can cause serious adverse health symptoms for the recipient of the hip implant, many of which are irreversible, even when the implant is removed. The Stryker Rejuvenate and ABGII were recalled this past July due to the risk of fretting and corrosion at the neck juncture. It was later found out that the metal trunnions, located at either end of the neck piece are made of metal as well. Body fluids can become trapped underneath the trunnions, corrosion occurs and metal ions are released into the body just as with the all-metal implant. The trunnions on the neck snap into the stem on one end and the ball on the other, giving surgeons freedom to choose the perfect size components for each individual patient. There is considerably less metal surface area than in the metal-on-metal hip implant, meaning there will be lower levels of cobalt and chromium in the body. The problem is that any level of cobalt and chromium can be too much. In persons who are particularly sensitive to these metals, even small amounts can make them very sick. Others with a relatively high tolerance for the metal ions may not notice any adverse effects until the levels in their body have built up to an alarming amount, then they may fall very ill. The following health issues are common in cases of metallosis: Kidney problems and renal failure Neurological issues Cardiovascular problems Loss of vision and hearing Disruption of DNA Thyroid problems Fatigue, anxiety, depression Loss of memory Chronic headaches and brain “fog” Dizziness and vertigo Skin disorders Gastrointestinal disorders The development of pseudo-tumors Those who have a Stryker Rejuvenate or ABGII-or any other metal hip implant-in their body should take special precautions. You must have regular blood work to monitor the levels of cobalt and chromium in your body, and your doctor may also want you to have a bone scan to determine whether there is any deterioration of the bone or tissue surrounding your implant. An experienced products liability attorney can also help inform you of your rights and assess your individual situation in order to determine what your options are for your future." I AM IN NO WAY AFFILIATED WITH THE PEOPLE WHO POSTED THE INFORMATION IN THE LINK. IT WAS FOUND USING GOOGLE SEARCH. I HAVE NO AFFILIATION WITH STRYKER OR ANY OTHER MEDICAL EQUIPMENT COMPANY. I DO KNOW THAT MOST MANUFACTURES DO INCENTIVIZE SURGEONS TO USE THEIR PRODUCTS. BUT A SURGEON HAS TO USE SOMETHING AND CAN NOT LEARN AND STOCK EVERY OPTION. ANYMsullolaw.com/productdefects/hipmetallosis/stryker-metallosissullolaw.com/productdefects/hipmetallosis/stryker-metallosis

[@terragibbia4670]

I appreciate your comment and research. What is the best implant for hip replacement? I was considering the dual mobility, although this also has cobalt and chromium in the head. I am very concerned about metal toxicity and want the best implant possible.

[@UntamedAustin]

@@terragibbia4670 I wish I knew,. Stryker is the dominant player. Probably several good options. What is most important is the skill of your surgeon in placing the implant correctly. I watch the Styker Maco Robotic Arm video on KZbin and it seems like the best way to help the surgeons get everything right.

[@katemackenzy5296]

Im seeing a consultant tomorrow to plan a hip replacement....I still have metal in my knee from a skiing accident....which during cold weather, that metal ware really aches or feels "cold"...presumably this will be the same with a hip replacement? any comments on this factor?

[@schwantz037]

Interesting how the ceramic falls faster than the metal ball. Are they heavier? Could they be more aerodynamic? Not that the later makes any difference when placed in the hip.

[@justinemarkdajay7485]

Hello, I know it's late but I'm an orthopaedic scrub nurse and I've been playing with these things for a while and I can definitely tell you that the metal heads are heavier. 😅

[@timmurphy3609]

Seems to be mixed opinions on studies. In 2013 a study said Ceramic femoral heads produced significantly less wear on conventional polyethylene liners at the time of long-term follow-up than did metal heads in this matched-pair analysis of young and active patients with uncemented fixation. In 2017 a study showed little difference but in fact metal was superior regarding dislocation repair. I'm seeing Dr. Yun next month and expect a replacement. I already have a ceramic femoral head in my right hip, so if he uses a metal femoral head on my other hip I can compare. Lol Dr. Yun is considered a top notch technician, so I'll just take his word for which is superior.