Evaluation of the biological safety of metal-on-metal hip resurfacing implants leads to health benefits for patients

Narrative

Research at Strathclyde University, led by Professor Helen Grant, provided data that contributed to the withdrawal of the DePuy ASR metal-on-metal hip resurfacing implant from the market in September 2010. This withdrawal was based on the increased rates of failure, due mainly to release of metal ions from the cobalt-chrome alloy implant into patients’ blood circulation. Over 93,000 patients are affected worldwide. The impacts of the research were (i) clinical - with concerted focus on patient health, removal of implants if required, prevention of long term metallosis; (ii) procedural - a reduction in the use of metal-on-metal implants more generally in the UK and worldwide, decline in use of metal-on-metal articulations, and renewed focus on regulation of orthopaedic implants; and (iii) economic - income to patients who have successfully sued the manufacturers.

Impact status	Open
Category of impact	Quality of life and safety, Health and welfare - new products, guidelines and services, Professional practice, training and standards
Impact level	Benefit