Hip Replacement Complications

Metal-on-metal artificial hips have a guarantee of 10-20 years of functionality. Sadly most of these all-metal hip replacements are failing within just a few years. Loosening, breakage and infection are all causes of hip replacement failures. Not to mention the wear of metal parts that creates debris that damages tissue and causes crippling pain. Problems with all-metal artificial hips are widespread among a number of manufacturers. Just ten years ago, one company was forced to compensate $1 billion to over 6800 patients who received an artificial hip that was contaminated by industrial oil. Another company was forced to recall a metal artificial hip but not soon enough. Over 40,000 people had already had this recalled artificial hip placed in their bodies.

Hip Replacement Revision Surgery

A failed hip replacement requires revision surgery to replace or repair the artificial hip. Revision surgery is complicated and has even worse outcomes than the original hip replacement. Opening the hip up again on the surgery table and removing the artificial hip causes tissue damage and the quality of the bone may make it hard to secure the revision hip replacement into place. The procedure is more difficult and requires an extremely skilled surgeon. Complications can arise with a longer surgery, more blood loss and risk of infection. People’s lives are being severely affected by artificial hip replacement complications.

Cost of Artificial Hip Complications

Medical bills for hip replacement revisions and complications are ranging from tens-of-thousands to hundreds-of-thousands of dollars. The costs are overwhelming and difficult for people already fighting a battle with physical pain. While more than 5,000 people have issued complaints or lawsuits, medical and legal experts estimate that a financial tsunami is on the way. 500,000 people have received metal-on-metal hip replacements and it is estimated that taxpayers, insurers and employers will pay billions of dollars in medical fees to replace artificial hips.  Insurers and Medicaid are asking to be reimbursed by patients who receive compensation from artificial hip replacement companies and surgeons. Needless to say, the financial aspect of these failed hip replacements adds to the complexity of this situation.

Prevent Hip Replacement with Prolotherapy

While hip replacements are needed in some patients, the reality is that far too many people undergo needless hip replacements. In fact, our Prolotherapy doctor, Ross Hauser M.D., has noted that he believes many people who think hip replacement is the only option can benefit from Prolotherapy and save themselves from the complications that come with artificial hips. If there is enough motion in the joint Prolotherapy can help regenerate cartilage in adegenerated hip. If you or someone you know has been told that hip replacement is your only option, please get another opinion, specifically a Prolotherapy evaluation to see if your hip can be saved.

For more information on your particular case, contact Caring Medical at 708-848-7789 or drhauser@caringmedical.com.