The Law Offices of Vastola & Associates are investigating cases involving complications with polymethyl methacrylate, commonly known as bone cement.
In light of recent reports and events, we are currently investigating cases where doctors may have recommended, or performed procedures involving the use of polymathy methacrylate (PMMA). PMMA, commonly known as bone cement, has been used successfully to anchor artificial joints. It is often used in procedures like hip or knee replacement. PMMA is considered to be a reliable anchor in the procedures that fall within its normal usage patterns. Generally, it is used to attach large masses of bone or artificial bone together.
The FDA has previously issued a public health web
notification alerting the public that “there had been serious complications form the use of acrylic bone cements in treating compression fractures of the spine”. Due to the typical location of these treatment areas, leakage can occur, which can result in soft tissue damage, as well as nerve root pain and compression. Patients had also reported complications generally associated with the use of bone cements, including:
- Pulmonary embolism,
- Respiratory failure
- Cardiac Failure,
- Abdominal Intrusions,
- and Death.
Bone cements primary use has been related to joint replacement procedures. However, physicians have modified the primary use of this material to attempt to treat spinal compression fractures. The modifications vary from each physician, but can include changes to the standard amount of contrast agent. Currently there are no standardized formulations of bone cement for use in the spine.
If you have been treated with Bone Cement, or know someone who has been treated, please contact us for a no-cost evaluation of your case.
