Hip-replacement poisoning scare

STAFF at the Royal Oldham Hospital have recalled 79 hip-replacement patients for tests following fears that metal from the prosthetic joints could be poisoning them.

The action relates to patients with DePuy ASR hip replacements, and the 79 are among thousands nationally who have been called back to hospitals for urgent blood tests.

The fear is that small particles from the metal hip components could be leaking into patients’ bodies, damaging flesh and causing immense pain.

Other symptoms include breathing problems, sight and hearing loss, and even the development of cancer.

A spokesman for Pennine Acute Trust, which runs the Royal Oldham Hospital, said: “Patient safety is our top priority, and for this reason, we are currently reviewing 79 patients who have all had these type of hip replacements.

“All patients who have received DePuy ASR hip replacements have now been contacted directly and have been recalled for review at the Royal Oldham Hospital, in line with the supplier and General Medical Council guidance like other hospitals.”

Some patients are reported to be taking legal action against the manufacturer.