While more than 332,000 hip replacement procedures are performed annually in the U.S., the true cost of these surgeries has not yet been determined. The Journal of the American Medical Association conducted a study in an attempt to place an average value on this amount, but researchers found that a patient can be expected to pay anywhere from $11,000 to $125,000 to receive an artificial hip implant.
Additionally, the recovery time for hip implantation procedures can vary from three to five days to three to six months or more, depending upon the patient’s previous condition, the type of hip implant and whether his or her body “accepts” the device. Should the patient notice symptoms or complications such as early hip implant failure, he or she may need subsequent surgeries to correct the problem or remove or replace the device.
Good Candidates for Hip Implants
Patients of every age can be eligible to receive a hip implant. Most commonly, elderly individuals suffering from arthritis or those who have sustained bone fractures due to slip and fall accidents may be more likely to seek a hip replacement surgery than younger, more active individuals. However, there are certain types of hip replacements designed for patients of all ages and lifestyles, so the decision to choose a product should be made after the patient’s activity level, present condition and surgeon’s preference are first considered. Common types of hip replacements include all-metal, metal-on-ceramic, all-ceramic and metal with a plastic spacer.
Hip Implant Failure Lawsuits Increasing
Several manufacturers of medical devices including Zimmer, Wright, Stryker, Biomet and DePuy have been named as defendants in hip implant failure lawsuits throughout the U.S. According to recipients, these companies’ hip replacement devices were allegedly defective and were prone to early hip implant failure. As a result, many patients were allegedly required to undergo subsequent procedures that were reportedly more complex and painful than the initial implantation surgery. Plaintiffs are attempting to seek compensation for these added medical expenses as well as rehabilitation, long-term care, lost wages and pain and suffering.
While there have recently been several settlements, including Stryker’s agreement in December 2013 regarding its Rejuvenate and ABG II hip stems and DePuy’s $2.5 billion settlement involving the company’s ASR metal-on-metal hip implant, patients in Kentucky may still be entitled to pursue claims against the manufacturer of the hip implant that they received if they can prove that the device directly caused them to suffer from hip implant failure or other complications.
Attorney Group for Kentucky Can Help
If you have experienced symptoms of a hip implant failure, you may be able to work with an attorney in Kentucky and recover damages for your injuries. Contact Attorney Group for Kentucky today to learn more about your options and to receive a free consultation. We can help answer questions and connect you with an affiliated attorney in Kentucky who can assist you in seeking the compensation to which you may be entitled by filing your hip implant failure lawsuit.
