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Hip revision due to metal on metal ions.

Joint Replacements | Last Active: Nov 20 9:28am | Replies (73)
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@rejmsw3021

I am scheduled for a revision in January. Have little pain or disability. Wonder if it is necessary? My cobalt reading is 33.9 and chromium is 11.6. My original surgery was in 2005.

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Replies to "I am scheduled for a revision in January. Have little pain or disability. Wonder if it..."
Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | Nov 20 9:28am

This seems to be an increasing issue with older metal-on-metal implants, perhaps as the metal corrodes. Earlier MOM issues seemed to be more related to unusual wear. In either case, the serum chromium and cobalt levels rise - accept levels are below 4 for each.

In addition to tissue damage and possible bone necrosis, here are some ther health problems that can be caused by high serum cobalt: heart damage or rapid heart rate, tremors or neuropathy, thyroid issues, hair loss, fatigue and damage to the atonomic nervous system.

The only sure way to lower the metal levels is to remove the offending implant(s) - after several months to a year, the body excrete the excess metal and levels return to normal.

What led you to schedule revision?

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