Alabama Smith & Nephew Recall Lawyers for the R3 Acetabular System
In June 2012, the Smith & Nephew recall of the metal cup element of the R3 Acetabular System hip implant from the market after an internal analysis found that there was a more than normal amount of recipient problems with the device. Metallosis was among the possible side effects suffered by many patients who had this hip implantation device. Metallosis happens when metal components rub together with other metal components causing an accumulation of metallic debris that can damage tissue and bone. Our Alabama Smith & Nephew Recall Lawyers represents clients who have been injured due to R3 Acetabular System hip replacement.
Is the Implant Dangerous?
Since the metal component came out in 2007, according to Reuters, about 7,700 patients have received the R3 Acetabular System’s metal-lined cup. Some of those patients suffered fractures, infections, and dislocations, which incited a Smith & Nephew recall the metal cup part of the system. This allowed surgeons to still use the R3 Acetabular System for hip-replacements only in conjunction with non-metal liners. Metal-on-metal hip replacements were developed with the idea that they would be more durable, when in fact, their fail rate is actually faster than expected and should be replaced. They are causing their recipients painful and often dangerous side effects such as the following:
- Inflammation and swelling at or around the site
- Severe pain – even without movement
- Implant loosening
- Dislocation
- Deterioration of bone
- Metal toxicity
- Additional hip implant surgeries
Friction from metal components rubbing against other metal components causes metallosis, metal toxicity, from the accumulation of metal flakes wearing the implant down. Metallosis can cause additional dangerous side effects:
- Confusion
- Problems with gastrointestinal system
- Emotional issues
- Infections
- Headaches and dizziness
- Nervous system issues such as tingling, numbness and burning in arms and legs
- Poison from cobalt which can involve hearing, cognition or sight problems, tremors, skin rashes, hypothyroidism, cardiomyopathy
Do I Have a Defective Implant Case?
You could have a case if you had a Smith & Nephew R3 Acetabular System hip replacement device implanted. The amount that you could recover will depend on the severity of your injuries. Damages can include compensation for your medical bills, earnings lost, pain and suffering and future costs expected. There are time constraints in cases like this, so if you think you have a case, contact Attorney Group for Alabama and let us know you are suffering from defective hip implant injuries. We will make this process of collecting damages for your injuries as simple as possible.
