Hip replacement devices are intended to help improve mobility, reduce pain and swelling, and improve the overall quality of the recipient’s life. While many have praised the technology behind all-metal implants, several device manufacturers have pulled their metal-on-metal hip implants from the market. While this ensures that no additional patients will be fitted with allegedly defective devices, the recalls reportedly came too late for tens of thousands of patients who were already fitted with a recalled hip replacement. If you received an all-metal implant and you are curious as to whether the device has been recalled, here are several signs or symptoms to closely monitor:
Signs You May Have a Recalled Hip Replacement
Patients have reported inflammation, local swelling, difficulty walking, pain around the hip or groin, and other symptoms due to a recalled hip replacement. If a patient notices one or more of these signs, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider as he or she can determine whether the patient is at a greater risk of complication or injury. An MRI or blood work may be necessary to measure the levels of metal ions in the patient’s bloodstream since the patient may not recognize that he or she is suffering until symptoms begin.
As a result of the increasing number of alleged complications caused by all-metal implants, several medical device manufacturers including DePuy Orthopaedics, Stryker Orthopedics, Zimmer Holdings, Wright Medical Technology, Smith & Nephew, and Biomet are currently facing an increasing number of lawsuits that have been filed on behalf of patients alleging severe side effects including metal toxicity, implant loosening, pseudotumors, infections, inflammation, bone and tissue damage, and more. According to plaintiffs, these manufacturers failed to adequately test their products before offering them to consumers, and patients are now pursuing claims to hold the companies accountable for the injuries allegedly caused by the devices.
While lawsuits are pending throughout the U.S. involving recalled metal-on-metal hip replacement devices, not every implant included in litigation has been pulled from the market. For this reason, it is important to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney even if your implant has not been recalled as you may still have a claim and be entitled to recover damages for your injuries. Depending on the type of metal-on-metal hip implant you received as well as your alleged complications and other damages, you may be eligible to pursue a claim for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages.
Do You Have a Recalled Hip Replacement?
If you or someone you love is living with a recalled hip replacement and you would like to learn more about your options and whether you are able to seek compensation for your injuries, please contact Attorney Group today for a free, no-obligation consultation. If we find that you have a case, we can put you in contact with one of our affiliated attorneys who can help you to recover the damages to which you may be entitled. Call today.
