I need help with Cobalt Toxicity

@pdemling Welcome to Mayo Connect. Kudos to you for helping your brother. I went through a similar issue a number of years ago.
You need to contact the original orthopedic surgeon (if still practicing) for records of his implant. He needs the specific model name and serial number for each implanted component. Yes, they exist, and the doctor, the hospital and Zimmer should have the records.
Next he needs to see an orthopedic surgeon skilled in doing revisions, particularly in cases of heavy metal poisoning. In addition to the cognitive issued he is suffering, there is often tissue deterioration where the metal ions are deposited, and a lot of cleaning out may be required.
He may also have elevated levels of chromium in his body. Do not let anyone convince him that he should have chelation therapy to remove the metal from his body - the only effective treatment is removal of the offending parts. Then the body will excrete the metal over a number of months. He should also have his heart and thyroid checked, as these may be affected by the buildup of cobalt, so a cardiologist and endocrinologist may need to be added to his "team." With cognitive issues, maybe a neurologist as well.
He may also want to consider contacting a lawyer, as Zimmer and the doctor should have notified him, and should cover all costs related to the revision.
Yikes! I have learned only recently that people are still living with these implants - mine were removed (both hips) nearly 12 years ago, only 5 years after implanting, and I was very ill by that time.
What steps has he (or you) taken so far? Who identified the problem?
Sue

Wow Sue. What an incredible asset you are in this very arcane topic!

Thanks Sue! You are incredibly knowledgeable n fortunate!
It would be helpful to talk off of this platform

@pdemling Thank you for the compliment, but the community aspect of Mayo Connect is my passion. We believe nearly 10 people read every discussion for each person who responds directly. Feel free to share any insights and questions here.
Sue

Bless your efforts, best wishes.
https://www.mctlaw.com/joint-replacement/cobalt-chromium-poisoning/#:~:text=Cobalt%20chromium%20poisoning%20happens%20when,%2C%20hearing%2C%20and%20even%20memory.

I just had revision surgury on my left hip 11/15/23, I'm going in today to set date for right hip.
V40 Stryker device had voluntary recall in 2016, I had my first one done in 2014, 2nd in 2016.
I NEVER RECIEVED LETTER, found out by accident 2 yrs ago!
I know 7 peole in my community/workplace that had rev surgury, same device same doctor!
The Nurse told me that they do one EVERY DAY in Buffalo General Hospital.
Just got a bill for 40K thankfully I only have pay 1000 AND I do have a lawyer working my case.
Good luck

I am so happy that you are taking action! I am constantly amazed by what I learn from everyone on Connect. When I had my revisions in 2012, I only knew ONE other person who even knew what that was.
Sue

Hi!
The doctor in Kentucky, where they live, said his cobalt number 5.1 is not high enough to warrant removal and it's unlikely that his level of cobalt is causing his memory issues!?
They are talking on Friday to the surgeon in California who did his surgery to see if he would suggest something different. Any ideas?
Pat

That where my levels were at and I had it done because once corrosion starts IT DOES'NT STOP !
It's still High, get another opinion.

Thank you! They did and now have surgery scheduled for March 12! We are all thanking God every day for this surgeon!
Pat