In 2000, Sulzer Orthopedics noticed higher than normal revision surgeries on their InterOpAcetabular Shell. The shell was held to the pelvis with screws, yet these sockets started to loosen. Patients experienced persistent and sharp groin pain due to this loosening and were unable to bear their weight on the leg that had the implant. Approximately 25,000 shells were affected. 17,500 of these were already implanted in patients. Following weeks of investigation of patients record, surgical techniques, and the product itself, the company ordered a recall. Sulzer eventually agreed to $1 billion settlement with affected patients.
Tag: Acetabulum
The W and H of Total Hip Replacement
The hip joints bear our entire body’s weight as well as forces exerted by hip and leg muscles. Except for our shoulder joint, it has the widest range of flexibility and motion allowing us to walk, run and jump. No wonder it is considered one of the most important joints in the human body. Replacement of hip joint with an artificial implant is considered one of the top achievements of its generation in the field of orthopedics. Multiple attempts with variety of materials including metal, ceramic and polymeric materials, spread over at least 300 years, allowed this progress. However, revolutionary advances in materials and implant designs starting in the 1960s, due to the efforts of pioneers such as Sir John Charnley, led to the development of the first top hit replacement or arthroplasty implants. Here is a little bit more on the what and how of top hip replacement.