Total joint replacements are a safe and effective method of alleviating pain from osteoarthritis and other forms of joint disease. When a total hip replacement or total knee replacement is necessary, some patients report a sensitivity to some metals. Whilst in general, the rate of metal allergies is very low, the presence of a knee replacement implant can in rare cases cause a reaction to the underlying tissue.

With our patients who have shown to have significant reactions on skin testing to various metals, there is some consideration given to changing the type and makeup of the implant materials. To date, there are very few patients who have severe allergies to internally placed metals such as those in hip and knee replacements.

Dr Chien-Wen Liew and Dr Mike Smith believe in customising the solution for their patients with various needs. Along with this is the ability to take into consideration the medical conditions, sensitivities and general desires of a patient.

For those with metal allergies, Dr Liew has used a particular type of implant shown below, that is gold in appearance. It is actually a low allergenic implant used for those who are very sensitive to cobalt and chromium.

Current research is not clear as to the very long term outcomes of these low allergenic implants, however their use has been deemed as safe in many cases. For the very few people who have proven significant allergies to Cobalt or Chromium, then these implants can be used instead – utilising the same personalised 3 dimension patient specific solutions that are currently used in each and every total knee replacement operation by Dr Chien-Wen Liew.

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To make an appointment, please call (08) 7099 0188 or visit www.drchienwenliew.com.au to make an online appointment.