Hip Replacements
Thousands of patients undergo total and partial hip replacement surgeries each year. Though it is presented as a standard procedure, hip replacements can fail and cause a series of painful complications. In some cases, hip replacements require complete surgical repair.
Healthcare professionals have issued warnings against metal-on-metal hip implants, which can damage soft tissue, spark inflammatory reactions and lead to bone loss. Compounded complications could weaken the structural integrity of the implant, potentially causing catastrophic device failure. Hip implants have also been linked to metallosis, a condition caused by the release of toxic particles like cobalt and chromium into the bloodstream.
In 2010, DePuy Orthopedics, a unit of Johnson & Johnson, ignited a wave of recalls after removing their metal-on-metal ASR hip system from the market. The most recent announcement comes from Stryker Orthopedics, who recalled their LFIT Anatomic V40 Femoral Head in August 2016.
Recalls for failed hip replacements have taken place nationwide. Many individuals experiencing complications have filed lawsuits for recalled devices, including:
- Biomet M2a Magnum and 38mm Metal-on-Metal Hip
- DePuy ASR Hip Resurfacing System
- DePuy ASR XL Acetabular Hip System
- DePuy Pinnacle Metal-on-Metal Acetabular Hip System
- Smith & Nephew Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR)
- Smith & Nephew R3 Metal-on-Metal Acetabular Hip System
- Stryker Accolade, Citation, Meridian TMZF Hip Stems
- Stryker LFIT Anatomic V40 Hip Femoral Head
- Stryker Rejuvenate and ABG Modular-Neck Hip Stems
- Wright Medical Conserve Metal-on-Metal Acetabular Hip System
- Wright Medical Profemur Z Hip Stems
- Zimmer M/L Taper Hip Stems
Numerous complications have been linked partial or total hip replacements, causing symptoms such as:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Loss of mobility
- Loosening of the hip joint
- Metallosis – a toxic condition caused by the implant releasing cobalt and chromium into the bloodstream
- Infections
- Dislocations
- Tumors at the site of implant
Individuals suffering complications from a total or partial hip replacement should seek legal advice immediately. Protect your rights by contacting our attorneys today.