EP37 - Dr. Selene Parekh - Metal Allergy Relief - 3D Printed Metal-Free Foot & Ankle Implants
In this groundbreaking episode of Heavily Metalled , we're joined by renowned orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Selene Parekh to explore the revolutionary development of the metal-free 3D-printed Talus implant. As systemic metal hypersensitivity gains wider recognition, this innovation offers new hope to patients who may be allergic to traditional metal orthopedic implants or wish to avoid metal altogether.
Dr. Parekh, known as the "Fantasy Doctor" for his sports injury analysis and as a trailblazer in orthopedic innovation, discusses how this polymer-based Talus implant mimics the function and durability of bone without introducing reactive materials into the body. We delve into the technology behind the implant, compare it to metal-based alternatives, and discuss the implications for long-term biocompatibility, joint preservation, and quality of life—especially for patients with previously limited options.
We also explore important questions around informed consent and screening for metal allergies in surgical planning. Does Dr. Parekh routinely pre-screen his patients? How is the orthopedic field evolving to meet the needs of this underserved group? And what’s next for 3D printing in other joints?
Don’t miss this episode if you or someone you love is navigating life with chronic pain or facing decisions about orthopedic surgery—it could change the way you think about implants forever;.
In this episode you will learn:
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How metal-free 3D-printed Talus implants are changing ankle surgery.
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The benefits of biocompatible, non-metal implant materials.
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What to ask your surgeon about metal allergies and implants.
~Links and Resources~
~ Find Dr. Parekh at his website HERE .
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~Follow Dr. Parekh on his YouTube Channel HERE .
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~To see Dr. Parekh’s interview on this implant with CBS News click HERE .
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~To make a comment or petition to the FDA, click HERE .
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~To follow Heavily Metalled on RUMBLE click HERE .
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~To read the YouTube medical misinformation policy click HERE .
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~Get the Low Nickel Diet cookbook HERE .
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~To learn more visit HeavilyMetalled.com .
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Sign up for the FREE newsletter and email list on HeavilyMetalled.com & get a FREE symptoms list & next steps bundle!~Sign the petition asking medical providers and facilities to pre-screen for metal hypersensitivity here: http://tinyurl.com/2458ea8
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***Many WONDERFUL, supportive special-interest communities exist for metal allergies and diet, hardware issues, medical devices, etc., online and on social media. They have many resources and often act as a collective think-tank. I owe many parts of my recovery to knowledge obtained in such groups. Search keywords to join these groups and find your tribe!***
Dr. Selene Parekh
Dr.
Dr. Selene Parekh is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon. He is currently an orthopaedic surgeon at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute and a Professor of Orthopaedics at the Sidney Kimmel College of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University. Dr. Parekh is known for utilizing state-of-the-art implants and techniques designed and developed to provide better treatments and offer limb salvage. Dr. Parekh also focuses on minimally invasive surgery and is a pioneer in the use of 3D printing techniques, total ankle replacements, and the treatment of foot and ankle conditions in athletes.
An alumnus of Boston University, Dr. Parekh earned a Bachelor's Degree in Medical Clinical Sciences and Classical Civilization, followed by a Master of Business Administration in Health Care Management, and a Doctor of Medicine. Additional educational pursuits include a residency in orthopedic surgery, a Fellowship in Health Care Entrepreneurship and a second Fellowship in Foot and Ankle Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Parekh continued his education with a certificate in Artificial Intelligence from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
A respected educator, Dr. Parekh previously served as Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Duke University, where he taught and trained medical students, residents and fellows. He also served as an Adjunct Faculty Member at the Fuqua Business School at Duke University and was the Director of Digital Strategy and Innovation in the Department of Orthopedic Surger… Read More
