Cobalt, Chromium, Nickel, and Molybdenum Concentration in Serum of a Patient with McKee-Farrar Prosthesis Twenty-six Years after Replacement

Abstract

Cobalt, chromium, nickel, and molybdenum concentrations in the serum of a patient were measured. The patient underwent bilateral hip replacement with Mckee-Farrar prosthesis 26 years ago. Roentogenographic examination in March 1986 showed loosening of his right acetabular component; however, he did not experience any pain in his right hip at that time and refused revision surgery. He was satisfied with his hips and worked as a public servant until he retired in 1993. He visited our clinic complaining of occasional posterior thigh pain on. September 8, 1999, up on which metal ion concentrations were measured. His liver functions showed slight abnormality, but he appeared to be in good health. X-ray films of the patient showed slightly widened bone absorption around the right acetabular component compared to 1986. Cobalt, nickel, and molybdenum concentrations were in the normal range. Chromium concentration had slightly increased, however, the risk of chromium contamination during venopuncture using a steel needle had to be taken into consideration. On December 20, 1999 he visited our clinic again complaining of right hip pain. The pain was diagnosed as entrapment neuropathy of the obturator nerve and was treated with a nerve block. He was satisfied with the results and refused revision surgery again. His liver function on that day was normal.