Metallosis
Metallosis is a type of medical condition that occurs when metallic debris builds up in the soft tissues of the body. This condition is often associated with certain types of joint replacement surgeries, particularly hip replacement and knee replacement surgeries that use metal-on-metal (MoM) devices.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Metallosis is typically caused by wear and tear on metal-on-metal joint replacements. Over time, the friction between the metal components can cause tiny metal particles to shed into the surrounding tissue and bloodstream. This can lead to a reaction that causes damage to the soft tissues around the joint, leading to pain, device failure, and other complications.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of metallosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual patient's response to metal debris. Common symptoms include:
- Pain around the joint
- Swelling and inflammation
- Difficulty walking or moving the joint
- A feeling of instability in the joint
- Unexplained hip or knee problems after joint replacement surgery
In severe cases, metallosis can lead to systemic symptoms such as cardiomyopathy, neurological changes, psychological changes, renal function impairment, and thyroid dysfunction.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of metallosis typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Blood tests may be used to measure the level of metal ions in the blood, and imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound may be used to assess the condition of the joint and surrounding tissues.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for metallosis typically involves removing the metal-on-metal joint replacement and replacing it with a device made from other materials, such as ceramic or polyethylene. In some cases, medication may be used to manage symptoms and reduce inflammation.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention of metallosis primarily involves the use of joint replacement devices made from materials other than metal. Regular follow-up appointments after joint replacement surgery can also help to detect any potential problems early.
 | This medical article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
