Hip implant or replacement surgeries are done to replace the hip joint with a prosthetic joint which would serve the same function. Usually these surgeries involve either total replacement or semi replacement of the hip.
Recently, the news about the Indian wing of a multinational pharmaceutical company hiding key facts about its faulty hip implants from the national regulatory body and also “suppressing” facts about their adverse health impacts created quite a stir among the patients and their families. It also raised questions about the safety and viability of these surgeries.
So FIT got Dr Ramneek Mahajan, Director Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement and Head of Unit at Max Smart Superspeciality Hospital, Saket to answer some important questions about hip implants. Read on.
After the incident of hip implant recall, what should patients know ? Are metal on metal transplants still being done?
Metal on metal implants has been loosing the popularity in view of the high rate of release of metal ions decreasing the life of the implant.
How are metal on metal transplants different from cement on metal? Are there any other options now that are safer?
The latest implants in total hip replacement are metal on poly, ceramic on poly and ceramic on ceramic with better functioning and longevity.
Can there be metal leakage even in these (new/ cement on metal) implants?
The metal on poly implant has significantly lower release of metal ions and hence low wear and high longevity.
What is the percentage of revision surgeries in these implants?
Percentage of revision surgeries is variable with different reasons. And depends on many factors. But is still considered low.
I got a mental on metal hip transplant done 6-7 years ago. Am I safe?
If there is no symptoms in relation to you can continue with your routine schedule.
How long do hip transplants last?
The latest available ceramic on ceramic has a promising longivity of 30 to 35 years according to the recent scientific literature.
I am a patient who needs a hip implant now. What are my options?
The options available are metal on polyethylene, ceramic on poly and latest ceramic on ceramic.
How do I ensure I am getting best care?
Get operated by a high volume hip replacement surgeon and follow postoperative rehabilitation as advised.
If you have more questions, then do write to us at fit@thequint.com and we will get an expert to answer them for you.
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