Hip replacements could cause serious problems

Penny Brown, a former gymnast and skier, faced severe issues with her metal-on-metal hip joint, which wore out after eight years, causing pain and job loss. The medical community has issued warnings about such implants, which have a higher failure rate, especially in large joints. Despite some models being withdrawn, others remain in use. Penny expresses frustration over inadequate testing and the ethical implications of widespread use. The medical regulator notes that problems became evident only after extensive use.

What was Penny Brown's role in the marketing campaign for the new hip joint?

• She was a medical researcher.

• She was a former gymnast and skier.

• She was a surgeon.

• She was a patient advocate.

What is the main concern with metal-on-metal hip joints?

• They are too expensive.

• They cause allergic reactions.

• They are difficult to implant.

• They can wear out and release metal fragments.

How many patients in the UK have had metal joint replacements or caps?

• 65,000

• 49,000

• 100,000

• 30,000

Why were some metal implants withdrawn from the market in 2010?

• They had the highest failure rates.

• They were difficult to manufacture.

• They were too costly.

• They were not popular among patients.

What is Penny's main concern about the testing of these implants?

• The tests were not thorough enough.

• The tests were conducted too quickly.

• The tests were not conducted on enough patients.

• The tests were too expensive.