Arthritis Health Center

FDA OKs Hip Resurfacing System

Company's Cautions

The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing System web site states that the resurfacing system "has been in clinical usage for 8.5 years in its current form, during which time patient results have been at least as good as conventional hip replacement in the indicated age group.

"But long-term results of this procedure are not yet known, and the usual risks associated with any hip replacement apply, including infections, damage to blood vessels, dislocation of the hip, thrombosis, anesthetic risk, and your doctor may inform you of other potential risks," states the product's web site.

"Metal on metal hip resurfacing is also associated with an increase of metal ions in the blood and urine," the web site notes. "All evidence to date has shown no correlation with metal ions with the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing System and any health problems. More studies are being done on the effect of metal ions in pregnancy and in patients with kidney disease.

"Most doctors would suggest that metal on metal devices should not be used in these two groups," states the web site.