Sixteen recipients of metal-on-metal hip implants have been checked by Southern District Health Board clinicians, information released under the Official Information Act shows.
Surgical medical director Murray Fosbender said in a statement the health board was complying with Ministry of Health guidelines in checking recipients of metal-on-metal implants.
None of the patients was suffering ill effects from the implants.
Several hazard alerts about metal-on-metal implant products have been issued in recent years because of health concerns.
Eight patients were seen at Dunedin Hospital, six at Southland Hospital and two in Oamaru. On its website, Medsafe said a small number of patients implanted with metal-on-metal hip replacements could experience problems caused by the build-up of microscopic metal debris. Health effects were monitored through checking for cobalt and chromium in the patient's blood.eileen.goodwin@odt.co.nz
