Briefly describe a specific question, or set of related questions, about a health care test or treatment that this program should consider.

There are many of us who have endured the results of "recalled" medical devices used for total hip replacement.

What treatment exists for cobalt and chromium contaminating the human blood stream? Ions of these two chemicals are the result of two metal moving parts within the product which rub together and produce minute levels of cobalt and chromium.

Does your question include a comparison of different health care approaches? (If no, your topic will still be considered.)

yes

If yes, explain the specific technologies, devices, drugs, or interventions you would like to see compared:

It appears there is no answer treating the above concern, but the FDA has suggested what should be done, considering the future possibilities of new medical problems caused by cobalt and chromium, which, will continue to attack the human body. There are many inflicted, and who are having, or considering having, the device removed (with serious risks), and a new non-metal-to-metal device.

What patients or group(s) of patients does your question apply to? (Please include specific details such as age range, gender, coexisting diagnoses, and indications for therapy.)

Are there subgroups of patients that your question might apply to? (For example, an ethnic group, stage or severity of a disease.)

Describe the health-related benefits you are interested in. (For example, improvements in patient symptoms or problems from treatment or diagnosis.)

Describe any health-related risks, side effects, or harms that you are concerned about.

Appropriateness for EHC Program

Does your question include a health care drug, intervention, device, or technology available (or likely to be available) in the U.S.?

Which priority area(s) and population(s) does this topic apply to? (check all that apply)

EHC Priority Conditions (updated in 2008)

None

AHRQ Priority Populations

None

Federal Health Care Program

None

Importance

Describe why this topic is important.

Because the results can be fatal!

What specifically motivated you to ask this question? (For example, you are developing a clinical guideline, working with a policy with large uncertainty about the appropriate approach, costly intervention, new research you have read, items in the media you may have seen, a clinical practice dilemma you know of, etc.)

The total left hip replacement which I have is no causing great pain, and has impaired what lifestyle I still have. Please read the FDA reports on the subject of metal-on-metal and which is NOW being condemed the federal health agencies and by renowned orthopedic surgeons.

They all agree the "product" should never have been given approval for use. Multiple world-wide companies manufacture these products, but some also manufacture the product with ine part made of ceramic(?), etc.

Does your question represent uncertainty for clinicians and/or policy-makers? (For example, variations in clinical care, controversy in what constitutes appropriate clinical care, or a policy decision.)

If yes, please explain:

Potential Impact

How will an answer to your research question be used or help inform decisions for you or your group?

It involves almost any age group, and lives are being devastated

Describe the timeframe in which an answer to your question is needed.

From what the professional people agree to is it will take a very long time to connect the dots from around the world.

Describe any health disparities, inequities, or impact on vulnerable populations your question applies to.

Nominator Information

Other Information About You: (optional)

Please choose a description that best describes your role or perspective: (you may select more than one category if appropriate)

It involves almost any age group, and lives are being devastated

Are you making a suggestion as an individual or on behalf of an organization?

Individual

Please tell us how you heard about the Effective Health Care Program

None