Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc (ZBH)

[DewDiligence]

ZBH reports 4Q23 results—issues 2024 guidance:

https://investor.zimmerbiomet.com/~/media/Files/Z/ZimmerBiomet-IR/press-release/zimmer-biomet-press-release-q4-2023.pdf

2024 guidance for revenue growth is +5-6% YoY in constant currency and +4.5-5.5% in USD.

2024 non-GAAP EPS guidance is $8.00-8.15. At the current share price (~$123), the midpoint of the guidance range represents a forward EPS of ~15x.

Note: ZBH’s non-GAAP EPS excludes restructuring costs, which were $61.2M ($0.29/sh) in 4Q23. I object to this policy for companies such as ZBH who are in a restructuring mode continually.

[DewDiligence]

Independent director bought $225K of stock on the open market last week:

https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1136869/000106299323020641/xslF345X05/form4.xml

[DewDiligence]

Re: GLP-1 effect on med-device companies

ZBH’s new CEO concurs with the discussion in #msg-173002788; from the 3Q23 CC transcript:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zimmer-biomet-holdings-inc-nyse-224434890.html

…once the cartilage is damaged, there is no recovery. …dropping weight is not going to cure osteoarthritis. …If anything, obesity is a blocker today to joint surgery as many surgeons are uncomfortable operating on patients with a BMI greater than 40 [in some countries] or even above the 30 threshold in some locations.

So why could GLP-1s then be a tailwind for orthopedics? Three compelling reasons. First, if you can lower the patient’s BMI below a certain threshold… these patients now become eligible for surgery. And all the data points that we’re getting in primary markets like the U.S. is that there is a large percentage of patients who today are not going through surgery because their BMI is too high.

Secondly, if a patient does lose…weight…and…become more active, there will be a greater risk for additional joint procedures because there will be injury.

And third, if a patient loses weight, they are likely to live longer… expanding the patient’s [timeline] for an orthopedic procedure. A good example of this is Japan, the second-largest market in the world for osteoarthritis with minimal obesity rates, but very long life expectancy...

[DewDiligence]

ZBH 3Q23 CC transcript:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zimmer-biomet-holdings-inc-nyse-224434890.html

[DewDiligence]

ZBH reports 3Q23 results—reiterates 2023 non-GAAP-EPS guidance:

https://investor.zimmerbiomet.com/news-and-events/news/2023/11-07-2023-113117335

3Q23 revenue was $1.754 billion, +4.7% YoY in constant currency.

3Q23 GAAP EPS was $0.77, down from $0.92 in 3Q22.

3Q23 non-GAAP EPS (which excludes restructuring costs) was $1.65, up from $1.58 in 3Q22.

ZBH reiterated 2023 non-GAAP EPS guidance of $7.47-7.57, despite a larger than previously expected hit from foreign currency.

[DewDiligence]

ZBH 3Q23 CC 11/7/23 8:30am ET.

[DewDiligence]

ZBH CEO will become CEO of 3M’s healthcare spinoff:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/bryan-hanson-named-ceo-3ms-122300047.html

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zimmer-biomet-announces-leadership-transition-122000860.html

[DewDiligence]

ZBH 2Q23 CC transcript:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zimmer-biomet-holdings-inc-nyse-103206455.html

[DewDiligence]

ZBH reports 2Q23 results—shares fall despite raised 2023 guidance:

https://investor.zimmerbiomet.com/news-and-events/news/2023/08-01-2023-113054956

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/medical-device-maker-zimmer-biomet-122133634.html

Zimmer Biomet Holdings on Tuesday raised its full-year profit forecast after beating second-quarter estimates on demand for its medical devices but shares fell [about 4%] as investors focused on the company's comments for 2024.

… The company said it expects backlog to remain the same or decrease going into 2024.

… The company now expects full-year profit of $7.47 to $7.57 per share, compared with its previous forecast of $7.40 to $7.50.

[DewDiligence]

Medical-device stocks (including ZBH) are strong today, while health-insurance stocks (e.g. HUM) are weak. Somebody apparently just realized that elective-procedure volumes are back to pre-pandemic levels and growing.

[Entlarvt]

Actually, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that titanium blood serum levels increase by 3.5fold within one year of implantation. While titanium is commonly used in medical implants due to its biocompatibility, there is no known mechanism by which titanium implants can directly influence blood serum levels.

Titanium implants are known to integrate with surrounding tissues through a process called osseointegration, where the bone fuses with the implant. This integration occurs on a structural level, facilitating the stability and longevity of the implant. However, it does not lead to a significant alteration in blood serum composition or titanium levels within the bloodstream.

It's important to approach such claims with a critical mindset and rely on scientific studies and empirical evidence. While titanium implants have proven benefits in terms of their mechanical properties and compatibility with the human body, attributing miraculous serum level increases to titanium implants is unsupported by scientific research.

Remember, it's always best to consult reliable scientific sources and experts in the field when evaluating medical claims to ensure accurate and evidence-based information.

[boston745]

Did you know titanium bloodserum levels increase 3.5fold, on average, within 1 year of implantation?

[Entlarvt]

While it is true that there are articles discussing potential adverse reactions to titanium (Ti) or its corrosive by-products, it's important to consider the overall scientific consensus and the weight of the evidence.

While a small subset of individuals may experience hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to certain metals, including titanium, these cases are relatively rare. The vast majority of individuals tolerate titanium implants without any adverse reactions or complications. Titanium has been extensively used in medical and dental applications for many years due to its biocompatibility and corrosion resistance.

It is crucial to differentiate between potential rare reactions in specific individuals and the general safety and effectiveness of titanium implants. The scientific and medical communities have thoroughly studied the biocompatibility and safety of titanium and its alloys. These studies have consistently shown that titanium implants have a high success rate and low incidence of adverse reactions in the general population.

It is important to approach scientific research with critical thinking and consider the overall body of evidence. While individual studies may highlight specific cases or potential concerns, they should be weighed against the larger body of research and scientific consensus. It is always recommended to consult with qualified healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on individual circumstances and medical history.

[boston745]

"There are many published articles supporting these views, but there is recent scientific evidence that Ti, or its corrosive by-products, may cause harmful reactions in humans. It is important for all medical and dental professionals to understand the implications, complexities, and all potential pathways of exposure to this metal"

[Entlarvt]

While it is true that some patients may experience less severe immune reactions to titanium implants, it is important to note that titanium is widely recognized as a biocompatible material with a low incidence of allergic reactions. The majority of individuals tolerate titanium implants well without any adverse effects.

Allergic reactions to titanium are considered extremely rare, and when they do occur, they tend to be localized and mild. The immune response to titanium implants is generally minimal, as titanium forms a protective oxide layer on its surface that helps prevent corrosion and immune reactions.

It is also worth mentioning that the medical field has rigorous testing and screening protocols in place to identify potential allergies or sensitivities before implanting any medical devices, including titanium implants. These pre-implantation tests, such as patch testing and laboratory investigations, help to identify individuals who may have a higher risk of adverse reactions to certain materials.

While it is possible for some patients to develop delayed sensitivities or immune reactions to titanium implants over time, it is crucial to approach such claims with scientific evidence and peer-reviewed studies. Without robust research demonstrating a widespread problem of undetected titanium allergies leading to various health issues, it would be speculative to attribute unrelated symptoms solely to titanium implants.

If individuals have concerns about their implants or suspect an allergic reaction, it is recommended to consult with healthcare professionals who can conduct proper medical evaluations and provide appropriate advice based on individual circumstances.

[boston745]

What makes it worse is alot of patients are having less severe immune reactions to titanium and thus do not know or pursue it. Blaming the problem on something else.

[Entlarvt]

While it is true that some individuals may develop sensitivities or allergic reactions to certain materials over time, such as titanium implants, it is essential to consider the available scientific evidence and expert opinions on the matter.

When it comes to titanium implants, such as those used in dental or orthopedic procedures, allergic reactions are extremely rare. Titanium is known for its biocompatibility, meaning it is generally well-tolerated by the human body and does not typically trigger immune responses or sensitivities. Titanium implants have been extensively used for many years with a high success rate and minimal adverse reactions reported.

Allergic reactions to titanium are considered uncommon, and when they do occur, they are often associated with pre-existing allergies to other metals, such as nickel or cobalt, which may be present as impurities in the titanium alloy. In such cases, it is crucial for patients to inform their healthcare providers about any known metal allergies before undergoing implant procedures.

Furthermore, thorough pre-implant testing and evaluation are typically conducted to identify potential sensitivities or allergies. This includes assessing a patient's medical history, conducting skin patch tests, and utilizing other diagnostic techniques to determine the suitability of titanium implants. These measures help to minimize the risk of adverse reactions and ensure the best possible outcome for patients.

It is important to rely on scientifically sound studies, expert opinions, and medical guidelines when evaluating the safety and potential risks associated with medical implants. While anecdotal reports and individual experiences can provide valuable insights, they should be interpreted with caution and considered in the context of broader scientific knowledge and consensus.

[boston745]

Not true. People are testing and show no initial response but after having the implant for months to years, patients are developing sensitivities.

[Entlarvt]

The problem is you'll never know who is going to be sensitive and its a growing problem.

Allergic reactions to titanium implants are extremely rare, and with proper testing, it is easy to identify individuals who are sensitive to titanium.

Biocompatibility of Titanium:

Titanium is widely recognized as a biocompatible material, meaning it is well-tolerated by the human body. When titanium implants are surgically placed, they generally integrate smoothly with the surrounding tissues without triggering an immune response. The biocompatibility of titanium is attributed to its oxide layer, which forms naturally upon exposure to oxygen. This oxide layer acts as a protective barrier, preventing direct contact between the titanium metal and body tissues, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions.

Low Reactivity and Corrosion Resistance:

Titanium exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring the stability and longevity of implants within the body. Unlike other metals, titanium does not easily corrode or release metal ions into the surrounding tissues. This low reactivity reduces the likelihood of an immune response, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. The stable nature of titanium implants further contributes to their biocompatibility and the rarity of adverse reactions.

Lack of Allergenic Potential:

Titanium is considered to have low allergenic potential, meaning it does not commonly elicit allergic responses in individuals. The structure and properties of titanium do not typically trigger the immune system's sensitization process, which is necessary for an allergic reaction to occur. Unlike certain metals, such as nickel or cobalt, titanium has a significantly lower sensitization rate. This inherent low allergenic potential of titanium makes allergic reactions to titanium implants highly uncommon.

Minimal Reports of Allergic Reactions:

The medical literature contains very few documented cases of true allergic reactions specifically attributed to titanium implants. The reported cases are exceedingly rare, and most of them involve individuals with pre-existing metal allergies or hypersensitivity conditions. These isolated cases indicate that while allergic reactions to titanium are theoretically possible, they occur so infrequently that they are considered outliers.

Reliable Allergy Testing:

If there are concerns about an individual's sensitivity to titanium, allergy testing can be performed. Patch testing, which involves applying small amounts of allergens to the skin, can help identify potential allergic reactions. However, it is important to note that patch testing for titanium sensitivity is not a routine procedure due to the rarity of allergic reactions. In cases where a true allergic reaction is suspected, specialized testing can be conducted to determine the specific cause of the reaction.

In summary, allergic reactions to titanium implants are extremely rare due to titanium's biocompatibility, low reactivity, and lack of allergenic potential. The minimal reports of allergic reactions, coupled with the stability and corrosion resistance of titanium implants, contribute to their overall safety and rarity of adverse responses. While allergy testing is available for individuals with specific concerns, it is not a standard practice due to the low incidence of allergic reactions to titanium.

[boston745]

The problem is you'll never know who is going to be sensitive and its a growing problem.

[Entlarvt]

While it is true that some individuals may develop allergic reactions to certain materials, including metals like titanium, attributing migraines solely to an allergic reaction from a dental implant requires careful examination and consideration of scientific evidence. Here are some points to consider:

Migraine triggers: Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, environmental factors, and genetic predispositions. It is important to consider these potential triggers before attributing migraines solely to an allergic reaction from a dental implant.

Allergic reactions and migraines: Allergic reactions can indeed cause headaches or migraines in some individuals. However, it is crucial to establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between the specific allergic reaction to a dental implant material and the occurrence of migraines. Migraine triggers and causes can be complex and multifactorial, and it is often challenging to isolate a single factor as the sole cause.

Prevalence of allergic reactions to dental implants: While allergic reactions to dental implant materials like titanium can occur, they are relatively rare. Titanium is generally considered highly biocompatible, and allergic reactions to it are uncommon. The incidence of true allergies to titanium implants is low, with most individuals tolerating them well.

Comprehensive diagnosis: Before attributing migraines to an allergic reaction from a dental implant, a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, such as dentists and neurologists, is necessary. This may involve ruling out other potential causes for migraines and considering a range of factors that contribute to migraine development.

Individual variations: Each person's response to dental implants or any medical device can vary. Some individuals may develop hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to specific materials, while others tolerate them without issues. Identifying an individual's specific allergic reaction and its relationship to migraines requires a thorough evaluation of medical history, diagnostic tests, and expert medical judgment.

In summary, while allergic reactions to dental implant materials can occur, attributing migraines solely to an allergic reaction from a dental implant requires careful consideration of individual circumstances, comprehensive evaluation, and scientific evidence. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals who can provide a thorough assessment and guidance tailored to each person's unique situation.

[boston745]

That means the cause of the migraine isn’t the dental implant itself, but rather, the allergic reaction to it.

The solution to said problem is the removal of the metal implant and either replacing with a bioceramic implant or possibly coating it with a bioceramic coating.

Keep doing research as there are more problems with biological responses to titanium from corrosion and collection of the ions in tissue and organs.

[Entlarvt]

CAN DENTAL IMPLANTS REALLY CAUSE MIGRAINES? NO – HERE’S WHY

https://badiedental.com/can-dental-implants-really-cause-migraines-no-heres-why/#:~:text=When%20Van%20Dyke%20came%20forward,his%20doctors%20found%20nothing%20abnormal.

If you are missing one or more teeth, you’ve likely heard that a titanium dental implant is an effective and modern replacement option. But there’s been some talk in the media about dental implants causing migraine headaches, most notably in 2013 when entertainer Dick Van Dyke claimed he was experiencing migraine headaches related to his dental implants. But how much truth is there to this claim? Can dental implants cause migraines, or are Van Dyke’s symptoms the result of another problem? Here’s what you need to know.

How the Myth Started

When Van Dyke came forward with his migraine story, he said that his migraines had been ongoing for a period of seven years. After rigorous tests including an MRI and a spinal tap, his doctors found nothing abnormal. That’s when Van Dyke concluded his dental implants must be the problem, although his publicity rep says that the doctors’ tests were inconclusive. From there, major entertainment tabloids caught wind of the story – and changed the headlines just enough to make it sound as if a doctor had made the dental implant conclusion instead of Van Dyke.

What Does the Science Tell Us?

Currently, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that dental implants cause migraines. Dr. Lawrence G. Falender is a Fellow of the American Association of Oral Surgeons and a faculty member of the Indiana University School of Dentistry. Dr. Falender says that in the 26 years that he’s been performing dental implant surgery, he has never come across a case of dental implants causing migraines. Meanwhile. Dr. David Edenbaum has a scientific rationale for why dental implants can’t cause migraines in healthy patients. Dr. Edenbaum, who has been named one of America’s top dentists nine times courtesy of the Consumer’s Research Council of America, says that dental implants are too short to cause migraines. To cause a migraine, a dental implant would need to extend into the mouth – but they’re always encased in the jawbone, so even an improperly placed dental implant couldn’t cause a migraine.

But what about Van Dyke’s story? If a dental implant is too short to cause a migraine, then why did Van Dyke start getting migraines after getting a dental implant?

As it turns out, there are two potential causes of ongoing migraines in dental implant patients. The MELISA Foundation, an organization dedicated to the study of metal allergies, says that migraines are a symptom of a metal allergy.Though metal allergies are rare (they affect only 2-4% of all patients, according to MELISA Diagnostics), a 2013 research paper found that a metal allergy would explain symptoms such as headaches, muscle pain, and indigestion. Dental implants are made of titanium and can cause symptoms – including migraines – in people with metal allergies. That means the cause of the migraine isn’t the dental implant itself, but rather, the allergic reaction to it.

It’s also possible that improperly installed dental implants can create a misaligned bite, which could result in migraines. Misaligned bite is a minor issue that can be fixed with a bite analysis and orthotic.

Are Dental Implants a Safe Tooth Replacement Option?

Modern dental implants have been around since the 1970s, and the surgery used to fix titanium to the jawbone has been around even longer. After 45 years of research, there still aren’t any studies showing a link between dental implants and migraines. The truth is that when they’re properly inserted, dental implants are quite safe.

[Entlarvt]

Not only did Dick Van Dyke admit he was an alcoholic, he said he had been one for 25 years, starting out as a social drinker, “like everyone else.” When on the Dick Cavett show he admitted: “You’re always an alcoholic.”

Alcoholism is a causal factor in more than 60 medical conditions, and can cause long-term damage to a number of vital organs including the mouth, throat, stomach, liver and breasts. This doesn’t include other forms of damage such as high blood pressure ,depression and migraines.

Lets stick to facts and stay away from conspiracy theories and un founded claims and assumptions.

[boston745]

Medical professionals didnt know how to help him. They couldn't find the cause of his ailments. It wasnt until he removed his titanium implants that he got better.

[Entlarvt]

Hold on to your dentures, folks, because we've got a hilarious tale about the legendary Dick Van Dyke and his unexpected cure for migraines - the removal of his dental implants! Get ready for a comedic twist on dental adventures!

Picture this: Dick Van Dyke, renowned actor and comedian, discovering a hidden secret to conquer his migraines. In a moment of inspiration, he realizes it's not a potion or a fancy gadget that will save the day, but the magical act of removing his dental implants!

Imagine the scene: Dick Van Dyke, dressed in a lab coat, holding a pair of oversized pliers, and exclaiming, "Implants, be gone! Farewell, migraines!" And just like that, his migraines vanish into thin air, leaving him stunned and wondering why he didn't try this hilarious remedy sooner.

But let's not get carried away with the hilarity. While it's amusing to envision such an unconventional solution, we must remember that dental implants serve a valuable purpose in many people's lives. They provide stability, functionality, and a bright smile that can light up any room.

So, let's take this humorous anecdote with a grain of dental salt. Dick Van Dyke's experience, though entertaining, shouldn't be mistaken for a universal migraine cure. It's like stumbling upon a comedy sketch in the dental clinic.

If you're suffering from migraines, it's always best to consult a qualified medical professional who can provide you with proper guidance and treatment options. As much as we adore the comedic genius of Dick Van Dyke, let's keep his dental escapades in the realm of entertainment rather than medical advice.

So, remember, laughter is the best medicine, but when it comes to dental health and migraines, trust the expertise of healthcare professionals. And if you happen to spot Dick Van Dyke brandishing pliers near a dental chair, well, you can bet there's a hilarious story waiting to unfold!

Disclaimer: This comedic reimagining is purely fictional and not intended to diminish the importance of dental implants or make light of migraines. Please seek appropriate medical advice for any health concerns.

[boston745]

Metal implants have definitely improved people's lives over no implants. However as metal implants corrode and the number of patients becoming hypersensitive to them, they are becoming less and less of an improvement in their lives. No better example of this is Mr Dick Van Dyke and his ailments as the result of his titanium dental implants. Its time for bioceramics to come into the forefront to continue the quest to improve patient outcomes.

[boston745]

Archived link in case it gets paywalled or blocked by subscription someday.

https://web.archive.org/web/20230507204900/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/q1-2023-zimmer-biomet-holdings-042605281.html

[DewDiligence]

ZBH 1Q23 CC transcript:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/q1-2023-zimmer-biomet-holdings-042605281.html

[DewDiligence]

ZBH reports 1Q23 results—raises 2023 guidance:

https://investor.zimmerbiomet.com/~/media/Files/Z/ZimmerBiomet-IR/press-release/zimmer-biomet-press-release-q1-2023.pdf

Guidance for 2023 non-GAAP EPS is now $7.40-7.50 (raised from $6.95-7.15). Guidance for 2023 revenue growth is now 5-6% (raised from 1.5-3.5%).

An increase in elective procedures is driving the updated guidance.

[boston745]

Driving electrochemical corrosion of implanted CoCrMo metal via oscillatory electric fields without mechanical wear

Here, we show that a low magnitude electrical oscillation (≤?200 mV) in the megahertz frequency (106 Hz) range is capable of initiating corrosion on implanted CoCrMo without the addition of mechanical wear.

This means that metal particles from the implants break off into the bodies fluids and tissue without any movement. Simple exposure to electromagnetic radiation that surrounds us is sufficient.
Therefore, those whom are exposed to greater amounts of radiation, will see greater levels of corrosion than a person not exposed. As Cobalt Chromium poisoning is a thing you can see that your metal implants can lead to various problems. Titanium does not seem to be as toxic yet it too causes biological problems.
In a world trying to push greater electrification and increased radiofrequency exposure via cellular & satellite, having a metal implants is not a good idea. For those with Metal implants minimize cellular/Wi-Fi usage & stay away from electric cars. For those looking for an implant...go CERAMIC when possible. Just remember not all ceramics are created equal.

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-01810-5

[boston745]

EM radiation can even have, it seems, a positive and/or negative effect on the bodies blood. Can lead to enhanced blood coagulation. As seen with COVID, this was not a good thing.

Seperately and likely applies to other diseases as well:

Evidence for a connection between coronavirus disease-19 and exposure to radiofrequency radiation from wireless communications including 5G
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8580522/

Zimmer needs to drop the sensors and start employing biological compatibile ceramics in their implants...long overdue. Not surprisingly ZTA has neurotoxic elements so needs to be different ceramic. Also corrosion causes ZTA to collect in tissue causing inflammation issues.

[boston745]

Do you recall my post about Mr Dick Van Dykes headaches due to his Titanium implants? Thats caused by amplification of EM radiation, most likely from cell phones.

Those wireless sensors emit more EM radiation than people are already exposed to. If you have an electric car thats even more EM radiation exposure in addition to cellular, wireless, and bluetooth.
In same cases, combination of EM radiation leads to metal failure, known as the Hutchison Effect. This is all stuff I warn about over at the Tesla board in addition to it causing SUA/thermal runaway.

[DewDiligence]

The amount of RF-frequency radiation emitted by these sensors must be very, very small. The signals are only intended to carry a short distance to someone's mobile device.

[boston745]

Thats not a good idea. Metal implants already amplify EM radiation. Adding wireless transmitters that emite EM radiation to the implants will cause more dis-ease. Man-made EM radiation contributes and even can cause autoimmune dysfunctions in people.
In addition those wireless sensors could contribute to implant failure.

[DewDiligence]

(ZBH/SYK/JNJ/etc)—“Smart” orthopedic implants track_patient_progress:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-knee-replacement-that-talks-to-your-doctor-its-just-the-beginning-2f9940b1

Already, a “smart knee” from medical-device maker Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc., introduced in 2021, comes with built-in sensors…that can wirelessly transmit a slew of data about how the replacement knee is working.

The details about your gait are sent daily to your orthopedic doctor, who can track your step counts, range of motion and other metrics in the months and years after surgery. Doctors tracking the information can reassure patients who are hitting recovery milestones. Or, if the performance measures fall short, a doctor may intervene to avoid having a patient stuck with an underperforming artificial knee, such as ordering a change in the patient’s physical-therapy regimen.

That’s just the beginning, say doctors and medical-device engineers. They predict sensors will be added to artificial hips, shoulders, and spinal implants. And they envision uses beyond orthopedics…

[DewDiligence]

This board is not especially active. There’s probably more posting about ZBH (and other medical device firms such as ABT) on #board-15427.

[centimos]

I get Zimmer shares now as part of the Embody acquisition. Following this board to see if this is worth holding.

[boston745]

While sunblock titanium does get into the bloodstream over the years, it doesnt get anywhere near to the level of titanium implants. The metals in bloodstream does interact with increasing levels of EM radiation in the enviornment we find ourselves in. Interestingly Iron levels was a player in covid severity for just this reason. No idea if other metals played into as much. This is important as it will likely be a factor in the next pandemic.

The median (range) of blood titanium levels of the standard hip, spine rods, femoral tumour implants and massive acetabular implants were 1.2 ppb (0.6–4.9), 9.7 ppb (4.0–25.4), 2.6 ppb (0.4–104.4) and 5.7 ppb (1.6–31.5) respectively. Spine rods and massive acetabular implants had significantly greater blood titanium levels compared to the standard hips group (p?<?0.001).

https://bmcmusculoskeletdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12891-022-05717-8

The serum titanium levels of patients with posterior lumbar spinal instrumentation are significantly higher than those of the normal population even after achievement of solid fusion. 

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0300060520984931

In one study with 20 COVID-19 patients, it was found that individuals with severe and very severe COVID-19 exhibited increased serum ferritin level, being serum ferritin in the very severe COVID-19 group significantly higher than in the severe COVID-19 group (1006.16 ng/ml [IQR: 408.265-1988.25] vs 291.13 ng/ml [IQR: 102.1-648.42], respectively). In agreement with this, another study revealed that in patients who died by COVID-19, ferritin levels were high upon hospital admission and throughout the hospital stay. The median values of serum ferritin levels after day 16 of hospitalization exceeded the upper limit of detection in these patients, suggesting that ferritin levels increased non-stop.

https://www.paho.org/journal/en/articles/ferritin-levels-and-covid-19

[DewDiligence]

I was talking about TiO2, the active ingredient in my LaRoche-Posay brand of sunblock. As far as I know, the TiO2 in the sunblock is inert and does not pose a health problem, but the authors of the Wiley article you posted earlier in this thread apparently disagree.

[boston745]

Ok. Here are some other studies. The third study indicates that cellular radiation, thus other sources of EM radiation, can impact osseointegtation of implants.

These implants seemed to be acting as antennae and collecting harmful electromagnetic waves. Further studies are required to confirm this hypothesis.

https://www.scirp.org/html/1-1290026_49928.htm

WCR has become a ubiquitous environmental stressor that we propose may have contributed to adverse health outcomes of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and increased the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, we recommend that all people, particularly those suffering from SARS-CoV-2 infection, reduce their exposure to WCR as much as reasonably achievable until further research better clarifies the systemic health effects associated with chronic WCR exposure.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34778597/

Cell Phone Radiation Effect on Bone-to-Implant Osseointegration: A Preliminary Histologic Evaluation in Rabbits

Conclusion: Implants exposed to cell phone radiation showed more inflammatory reaction when compared to the nonexposed implants, thus indicating that cellular phone overuse could affect the maturation of bone and thus delay osseointegration.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30892289/

[DewDiligence]

I use a sunblock with titanium dioxide every day, all year.

[boston745]

Mmwave 5g in cities is going to make this problem way worse. It even plays into the increase in the severity of respiratory illness.

Titanium exposure and human health

Metals present within the body can act as an antenna to collect harmful radio waves, thus inducing many general and severe symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, tinnitus, dizziness, memory loss, irregular heartbeats, and whole-body skin symptoms, which are considered to be caused by electromagnetic hypersensitivity. In dentistry, Ti dental implants may be the material most commonly associated with antenna activity and may promote harmful effects of electromagnetic waves. 

However due to proximity, cervical spinal implants do as well. If people keep their phones in their pockets or attached to their belt, this would impact hip implants; much larger amplifier than any other implant.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/osi2.1001

[boston745]

Ask Mr. Dick Van Dyke

Legendary actor Dick Van Dyke says he has solved a medical mystery that has baffled him and his doctors for years. The cause of pounding headaches that have plagued him for seven years are his titanium dental implants, he says.

https://emerginnova.com/dick-van-dyke-mystery-illness/

The issue with metal dental implants is primarily due to proximity to cell phone radiation.

[DewDiligence]

Thanks for posting the transcript. ZBH's CCs are among the most boring of any company I follow, so reading the transcript is a better option. (With most companies, I listen to the CCs to pick up nuances in the delivery.)

[DewDiligence]

[OT]—Compared to a knee or hip implant, the amount of metal in a dental implant is minuscule. I find it hard to believe that such a small amount of metal could be problematic in the way you allege.

[boston745]

It divested spine and dental that was the old tech I was talking about. Didnt say anything disparaging toward their high growth pursuits or products. Outside of what ive said before...metals work as an antenna for electromagnetic radiation enhancing sickness and disease in patients. Switching to ceramics is needed across the industry. That said not all ceramics are created equal.

On a personal note, I wish my wife could have received a ceramic dental implant over a damn titanium one.

[DewDiligence]

I hope it has better products lined up to replace the old tech it divested. But seems doubtful now that ZB seems so focused on higher growth/margin products.

I do not understand what you mean. Are you saying that ZBH’s high-growth products are not good products?

[boston745]

Zimmer Biomet Holdings (ZBH) Q4 2022 Earnings Call Transcript
https://m.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/ZIMMER-BIOMET-HOLDINGS-14996/news/Transcript-Zimmer-Biomet-Holdings-Inc-Q4-2022-Earnings-Call-Feb-03-2023-42892028/


http://conferencecalltranscripts.org/?co=ZBH.US

[boston745]

I hope it has better products lined up to replace the old tech it divested. But seems doubtful now that ZB seems so focused on higher growth/margin products.

Nice to see the drop in debt load.