When a Patient Exhibits Stryker Metal Poisoning Symptoms

Patients who were implanted with a Stryker ABGII or Rejuvenate metal hip implant may have been exposed to the accumulation of cobalt and chromium metals in the body, leading to Stryker metal poisoning symptoms. Further, there is a metal junction between the neck and stem, as well as small metal trunnions located on either end of the neck piece. Any time the implant recipient engages in physical activity, the metal components rub against one another, creating friction and the release of metal ions.

Stryker metal poisoning symptoms can result when that friction releases tiny metal particles into the body. Metallosis can occur when the metal particles lodge in the hip tissues, leading to inflammation, chronic pain, infection and the destruction of bone and tissue. Stryker metal poisoning symptoms are likely to occur when those same metal ions make their way to the patient’s bloodstream. Cobalt is not stored in the body—and once the implant is removed,
the levels of cobalt and the Stryker metal poisoning symptoms should lessen. Chromium is stored in human tissue, therefore if there is any compromise in the renal system, the Stryker metal poisoningsymptoms may continue even when the implant is removed.

Some of the more common Stryker metal poisoning symptoms include: Thyroid and renal issues, cardiovascular and neurological disorders, loss of short-term memory, DNA disruption, anxiety, irritability, depression, chronic headaches, loss of vision and hearing, vertigo, skin disorders, gastrointestinal disorders and the formation of pseudo-tumors. In the most serious cases, cobalt poisoning can lead to extremely severe Stryker metal poisoning symptoms such as seizures and brain damage as well as cancer.

Some patients with a Stryker metal hip implant have been tested with levels of cobalt and chromium well over 100 times what is considered normal, which can lead to serious Stryker metal poisoning symptoms. It is extremely serious that all Stryker implant recipients have regular blood work done, particularly when there are symptoms of Stryker metal poisoning or pain. It could also be in the patient’s best interests to speak with a knowledgeable Stryker attorney who can assess the situation and lay out a proper course of action.