I was on a business trip last October, with a lot of walking through the airports and convention halls. I was experiencing a lot of pain in both hips ( I had bi-lateral replacements). In December last year, I went to my Orthopedic Surgeon for help. They were alarmed that I had metal on metal implants. They wanted to get the devices out as soon as possible, noting necrosis and tissue damage in both hips. along with suedo tumors. My blood tests came back with Cobalt levels at 8.9 and Chromium levels at 5.0. I had a revision on my left hip in March of this year.

While in the hospital, I had a number of doctors who were not assigned to me, come in to see me because they had never seen anyone with Cobalt and Chromium poisoning. The lack of knowledge was concerning, as I felt I knew more than they did. My Primary care physician has been very supportive and is trying to research the long term effects of heavy metal toxicity.

During the operation, there was evidence of metallosis and staining, with necrosis and a bio mass that was removed and sent for testing. The recovery was challenging, but I am walking every day. I met with my surgeon on Monday, and he wants to schedule a revision on the right hip for this November. My latest blood test was at 3.9 for Cobalt and 3.0 for Chromium. The surgeon stated that this was well over the levels to recommend removal of the old device.

I have had permanent nerve loss/damage to my feet, legs hands and face. My vision is also affected with my optic nerve showing damage as well. My implants have been systemically impacting me with over 17 years of damage.

I know that is a lot of information to consider...