In recent years several major medical manufacturers recalled metal hip implants following reports of dangerous side effects including metallosis.

These metal hip implants have also been reportedly prone to fretting and corrosion, which can cause infection and the formation of pseudotumors. These masses form where immune systems recognize metal ions as foreign contaminants and tries to destroy them.

Experts explain that the metal ions enter the bloodstream, due to the interactions between the ball-and-socket joints of the device.

Stryker Corporation has been one of the companies that has had to recall its metal hip implants, and is facing legal action over injuries its customers suffered. Stryker’s Rejuvenate and AGB II modular-neck stems, which were released into the market in 2007, were recalled in 2012.

In an “Urgent Field Safety Notice,” which identified potential complications that could be caused by these products, the company said only a few patients per doctor would experience these injuries. However, Dr. Merwin B. “Win” More III of Baxter Regional Bone and Joint Clinic, identified 14 of 59 patients who were injured and had to undergo revision surgery.

Moore and other physicians have reported that despite sending out the warning letter, Stryker was uncooperative in answering specific questions about the hip implants, including identifying the different metals in the metal hip implants.

Despite hours of research, he could not confirm what levels of chromium and cobalt would be dangerous in the blood. After finding no information, Moore and his colleagues decided to establish their own safety limits for cobalt and chromium levels, so they can make informed decisions in removing the implants at the sign of high blood-metal levels.

Moore stated that even getting a blood sample tested for this reading was difficult, but he finally found a lab. He says this test can predetermine cases of metallosis and device failure, allowing him to warn patients before their condition worsens.

For patients who do not show complications over a long period of time,  Moore believes that the device would be OK to leave in the patient as long as there is ongoing monitoring.

Several patients of Dr. Moore have decided to take legal action against Stryker, alleging the company failed to warn them about the risks of their products.