In June 2012, Smith & Nephew recalled the metal cup element of the R3 Acetabular System hip implant from the market after an internal analysis reportedly 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. The Smith & Nephew R-3 Recall Attorneys affiliated with the Attorney Group represents clients who have been injured due to R3 Acetabular System hip replacement.
For more information, contact Attorney Group today. Our consultations are free, confidential and without any obligation on your part. We can help answer your questions, and if you choose to pursue a claim we can connect you with an affiliated lawyer who can assist you throughout the legal process.
Is the Implant Dangerous?
According to Reuters, since the metal component came out in 2007, 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 allegedly 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 Hip Implant Claim?
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 a Smith & Nephew R-3 Recall Lawyer as soon as possible.
For more information, contact Attorney Group. When you contact us, an attorney will follow up with you to speak with you about your case or answer questions that you might have. There is no cost or obligation to speak with us, and any information you provide will be kept confidential.
Please note that the law limits the time you have to pursue a claim or file a lawsuit for an injury. If you think you have a case, you should not delay taking action.
See our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information, and contact Attorney Group today.
