DePuy Orthopedics, a division and subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, has issued a recall for its ASR hip replacement system following several years of reports of high rates of failure. While the impact of the Depuy ASR recall are not yet entirely clear, if you or someone you know has received an ASR hip replacement, it is important to understand your need for an attorney. Thousands of people throughout the United States have received a defective DePuy Hip replacement, and even those who have not yet experienced problems should know the details about the DePuy ASR recall and how it can affect your future.
Why was their a DePuy ASR recall?
The DePuy ASR recall is aimed at hip replacement systems that have been in use worldwide since 2003. DePuy had been given special permission from the FDA to put the devices into use in the United States without preliminary clinical trials to determine whether they were entirely safe or not. There have been over 400 FDA complaints since 2008 about the DePuy ASR system, and it has been recognized as having a high rate of failure, with more than 1 in 10 needing revision surgery to repair the damage. The Depuy ASR recall was voluntary as of August, 2010, in response to results of the first lawsuits being filed, but nearly a year and a half later later than they should have issued such a recall.
What problems can occur with the DePuy ASR Hip Replacement?
Patients have complained about difficulty walking, pain, and swelling as a result of the faulty system. These are normal symptoms for someone who has recently received hip surgery, but if they continue for longer than your doctor advises you as normal, it could mean that the hip replacement is faulty. If these problems develop one to three years after your DePuy hip replacement, the implant may have broken or become dislocated. Research has shown that the metal used in the implant can leak toxic debris that may cause nerve and tissue damage, as well as bone loss diseases.
How do I know if I need an attorney?
If you live in Arkansas and have had any hip replacement surgery after 2003, whether you feel pain or discomfort or not, you should contact your doctor or your local hospital to attempt to identify the hip replacement system used. If you have had hip replacement surgery but before 2003, then you could not have received this system and do not qualify for damages in the Depuy ASR recall. Your doctor can help determine if you received this hip replacement, or whether it is functioning properly.
Who can I contact to represent me in Arkansas?
An Arkansas hip recall attorney can help you receive compensation for your injuries, as well as guide you through the complicated process of determining if you qualify for compensation or damages. If you have received a defective DePuy hip replacement, you could be at risk for severe medical problems in your future, even if no problems have become apparent yet. Contact your doctor, and contact an Arkansas hip recall attorney to receive a consultation and evaluation of your case.
