A two-day meeting is being held by the Food and Drug Administration in order to critically analyze metal-on-metal implants for those failing hips. The replacement hips were implanted in nearly half a million Americans, and were found to fail earlier than they should. The metal implants were suggested to not wear as quickly and be less likely to dislocate, although data shows otherwise. “Hip replacements are supposed to last between 10 to 15 years, but more than 6 percent of patients with metal hips needed them replaced after less than five years,” according to CBS News. Research also shows that those who received the implants should get blood tests in order to see if metal components have entered their blood stream. “In my personal opinion there is very little room, if any, for metal-on-metal implants because the alternatives we have on the market are likely safer and as effective,” said Dr. Art Sedrakyan, professor of public health at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York.

As a personal injury attorney, I highly advise that everyone with a metal-on-metal hip implant make an appointment with their doctor in order to check for potential failure or other symptoms caused by wear and tear. If you or someone dear to you believe you were adversely affected by an unsafe product, discuss your claim with an attorney who can evaluate your case and help protect and defend your rights.