MRI May Predict Adverse Tissue Reaction for Metal-On-Metal Hip Replacement Patients

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect a failing, or potentially failing, metal-on-metal hip implant (MoM) in the early stages, according to new research.

The study’s findings were presented at the 2013 annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), held in Chicago (IL, USA), March 19-23. Early detection can result in timely revision surgery, slashing the risk for additional tissue damage and pain.

Alissa J. Burge, MD, from the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS; New York, NY, USA), and researchers reviewed the MRI scans of 70 patients who ultimately underwent revision surgery for a failed MoM implant. The images were assessed for the presence of swelling, tissue damage, and other characteristics. The researchers discovered that MRI is very sensitive and specific to identifying tissue damage in MoM total hip replacement (THR) patients. Early identification of at-risk patients can result in well-timed revision surgery, when necessary, decreasing pain and future damage to surrounding hip tissue.

In December 2012, the Academy issued an information statement on metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty, recommending a “low threshold” for beginning the evaluation of a patient with a MoM hip replacement, as “early recognition and diagnosis will facilitate the initiation of appropriate treatment prior to significant adverse biological reactions.”

The report also provided a detailed summary of a variety of diagnostic and treatment tools to lessen patient discomfort, and defined when to rapidly begin treatment, and if needed, revision.

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