According to a report released by The Independent newspaper, the cobalt-chrome alloy used to manufacture hip implants has been found to be toxic and can cause local reactions that destroy muscle and bone.

As many as 50,000 hip replacement patients will need to have a yearly check-up as evidence grows their metal implants can potentially lead to serious health problems, including severe pains and long-term disability.

There have also been reported cases of metal particles entering the bloodstream, spreading to the spleen, liver and kidneys, causing serious damage to the digestive system. Another concern is  these particles causing damage to chromosomes, which can increase the risk of cancer.

Simon Thompson, Managing Director at Precision Claims, which has dealt with a number of hip replacement claims over the years stated, 'This is the latest report among many in recent weeks which clearly illustrates the risks thousands of people across the UK have been affected by defective hip prostheses.

'European regulators fail to force manufacturers to carry out studies in patients implanted with devices known to be capable of producing toxic substances and debris. This has exposed potentially millions of patients to an unknown risk as well as leading to a substantial increase in the number of hip replacement claims.'

A joint investigation between the British Medical Journal (BMJ) and the BBC's News night also produced a report earlier this month suggesting that problems regarding a number of large manufacturers' hip replacements have been known for a long time. However no action has been taken to prevent their use.

Around 65,000 people in England and Wales have received metal-on-metal hip implants, with as many as 49,000 UK patients with large-head hip implants at potential risk of having received a defective replacement  according to The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Simon Thompson continued, 'It's disappointing that we will only find out how safe these devices really are if a significant amount of patients become exposed or injured as a result.'

Precision Claims specialises in providing help and support for people pursuing a hip replacement claim if they have been a victim of a defective or recalled hip prosthesis. Call today on 0844 704 1945 for a free enquiry or visit http://www.precisionclaims.co.uk for information about their full range of legal services.