The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has identified increased risks of wear and corrosion associated with certain cobalt-chrome modular neck hip replacements. These devices were available in the UK from 2007 to 2019 and are no longer on the market.
Approximately 750 patients in the UK currently have these particular hip replacements implanted. While most patients with these devices have well-functioning hips, a small number may develop problems in the surrounding tissues, potentially leading to the need for revision surgery.
As a precautionary measure, NHS trusts and hospitals are being advised to identify patients with these devices and invite them for a clinical review. This review will inform them of potential risks and discuss if ongoing monitoring is required based on their symptoms or clinical findings.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, stated that affected patients should expect to be contacted by their surgeon or implanting hospital for an assessment. Patients experiencing new or unexpected symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, or instability, should speak to their surgeon or the hospital where their surgery was performed.