Routine Testing for Metal Ion Levels in Blood Not Recommended Currently for All Metal-on-Metal Hip Resurfacing Patients

The Advisory Committee overseeing the Alberta HIP study does not currently recommend routine testing for metal ion levels in patients who have had a metal-on-metal hip resurfacing. The committee advises metal-on-metal hip resurfacing patients to contact their orthopaedic surgeon if they are experiencing problems in their resurfaced hip.

Alberta HIP is a long-term study, begun in 2004, comparing the safety and effectiveness of metal-on-metal hip resurfacing with conventional total hip replacement. Currently, more than 1,000 Albertans are participating. They will be followed for 10 years from their surgery date.

The health significance of elevated metal ions in the blood has not yet been determined.

 

Patient Materials

These patient guides will help you prepare for and recover from your total knee or hip replacement surgery. By taking a few minutes to read this information, you will have the benefit of knowing what to expect when you have your surgery, and what to do during your three- or four-day hospital stay and during your recovery at home.

The Patient Guide to Hip Replacement and the Patient Guide to Knee Replacement are based on care plans approved by the Alberta Hip and Knee Clinical Committee.  The guides may not be altered in any way and must be provided in their entirety and intact to patients and other users.  Translation of the guides in whole or in part must not alter the meaning or intent of the original text.

Other Resources for Patients

Below are some other resources that patients may find helpful.

Patient Care Plans

These posters visually represent what you can expect of your recovery during your hospital stay after hip or knee replacement surgery. These posters should be available in your hospital room.

Orthopaedic Surgeon Directory

ABJHI maintains a directory of orthopaedic surgeons who practice in the province of Alberta.

Links of Interest