S&N Statement on BHR

4 June 2015

  • Voluntary actions initiated to remove smaller size components and change Instructions for Use (IFU) following analysis of recent performance data
  • No action required from patients; no change to current practice for patient follow-up care
  • BHR continues to perform amongst the best hip replacements for the right patients

Smith & Nephew (LSE: SN; NYSE: SNN), the global medical technology business, announces the voluntary removal from the market of 46mm diameter and smaller femoral heads and corresponding acetabular cup components for the BIRMINGHAM HIP◊ Resurfacing (BHR) System, and new Instructions for Use (IFU), reflecting recent performance data. Surgeons should maintain their routine follow-up protocol for patients, and patients are not required to take any new action.

Andy Weymann MD, Smith & Nephew's Chief Medical Officer, said: "Patient welfare is Smith & Nephew's top priority. Based on our analysis of our most recent data, we are taking the necessary steps to ensure that the BHR is only used in those patient groups where it has demonstrated strong performance. These represent the vast majority of current patients."

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