Metal toxicity: 2000 hip implants recalled18 September 2025 The Medical Health Regulator’s Guidance & a Patient’s Story Reported by the Daily Telegraph (5th September 2025), the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a safety alert confirming increased risks linked to certain Profemur cobalt-chromium modular neck hip replacements. One patient, Tracey O’Neill, shared her experience in the national press (The Daily Telegraph) and with us at NRAS. Her story was a catalyst for the MHRA’s investigation, which began in October 2024. Tracey underwent her primary hip replacement in 2014 and suffered unexplained pain, reduced mobility, instability and other symptoms for many years. Tracey doesn’t have rheumatoid arthritis but NRAS is aware of a limited number of people with RA who have been affected by metal toxicity relating to hip implants. Devices Affected According to the MHRA Medical Device Safety Information notice the affected devices are: All hip replacement constructs using Profemur cobalt-chromium (CoCr) modular neck components All Profemur Xm hip replacement stems (cobalt-chromium/CoCr) used with Profemur titanium or cobalt-chromium modular neck components These devices were used in the UK from 2009 until January 2025. Current data suggests that around 2,000 people may have one of these implants in place. The devices are no longer available in the UK. Guidance from the MHRA & BOA The MHRA has instructed NHS trusts and hospitals to identify and contact all affected patients so that they can be clinically reviewed. The British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) states: “Patients implanted with affected devices should be invited for clinical review to assess their clinical presentation – including symptoms such as pain, loss of function or instability.” People who are concerned are encouraged to wait to be contacted by their hospital or GP. However, anyone experiencing new or worsening symptoms should seek medical advice promptly. For further updates, please see: MHRA Safety Information Notices & British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) guidance Tracey’s story illustrates the importance of patient voices in driving awareness, safety, and change. Motivated by her experience, Tracey established an online support community Hip Replacement Chronic Pain Support & Cobalt Poisoning which now brings together patients across the UK and internationally who share similar challenges.