While metal-on-metal hip implants are intended to provide a more durable alternative to other types of artificial hips, some patients have experienced a wide range of serious complications resulting from the medical devices, including pain, loss of mobility, and even the need for additional surgery. The Zimmer Kinectiv hip replacement has been the subject of a recall, and if the device causes similar complications, affected patients may be able to file a New York Zimmer Kinectiv lawsuit and seek compensation for their damages.
If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with a Zimmer hip implant or any metal-on-metal hip replacement, contact Attorney Group for New York today. We provide free, confidential, no-obligation consultations, and if you have case we can connect you with an affiliated Zimmer Kinectiv lawsuit attorney who can assist you throughout the legal process. The time to pursue a claim is limited, so contact us today.
The Hip Replacement Process
For many people, a total hip replacement is the final attempt to find relief from chronic pain. Doctors attempt to treat the pain with non-surgical methods before turning to a hip replacement. Rest, weight loss, physical therapy, supportive devices, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or injections directly into the hip joint may be attempted first, but if those treatments do not work, surgery may be necessary.
When surgery is deemed appropriate, a surgeon will remove the damaged tissues within the hip joint and replace them with an artificial prosthesis. These prostheses are made up of a ball-and-socket joint that mimics the original joint found in the human body, which is also one of the largest. The ball portion is attached to the top of the femur, while the socket is placed in the pelvis. The replacement of a damaged or diseased hip joint can significantly improve range of motion, as well as alleviate the pain and discomfort that comes from the lack of cartilage in the area.
Complications Arising From Metal-On-Metal Hip Implants
The most significant risk related to metal-on-metal hip implants involves metal particles shedding within the body due to the constant contact between implant components. These particles can then make their way into the bloodstream, which may result in patients experiencing heightened toxicity levels and blood poisoning.
Patients have also experienced a wide range of additional side effects. Patients undergoing hip replacement may also run the risk of a dislocated implant. This occurs when the ball of the implant breaks free from its socket, a condition that sometimes requires revision surgery to correct. Loosened implants are another concern, which involves a weakening of the implant components to the point where the newly implanted joint becomes unstable. Infection of the surgical site is also a potential complication for patients undergoing this procedure. Should an infection occur in the deep tissue where the prosthesis is placed, further surgery may be required.
Zimmer Kinectiv M/L Taper Recall
In June 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a Class I recall of Zimmer’s M/L Taper Hip Prosthesis with Kinectiv Technology Femoral Stems and Necks, based upon information that was provided by the company. Zimmer found that a process monitoring failure had allowed the products to be distributed with higher than normal levels of manufacturing residue. According to the FDA, this residue has the potential to cause serious health concerns in patients who received the implants during a hip replacement surgery, including infections, allergic reactions and even death.
Metal devices are typically milled using high-tech machinery which can create tiny metal shavings. The oils used to aid in manufacturing can also remain on a device after the milling process, and if manufacturing errors occur in which the residues are not removed, these contaminants can become a hazard. If a patient receives metal particulates into his or her bloodstream from a tainted hip implant device, there is a potential for increased toxicity or device failure.
Affected Patients May Be Eligible To File A New York Zimmer Kinectiv Lawsuit
Device makers have a duty to design and produce safe products, and to warn of possible risks associated with their products. Failure to fulfill that duty can result in injuries to patients, and the device maker being held liable for those injuries.
Patients who are injured by metal-on-metal hip replacements may be entitled to compensation for damages resulting from injuries. Compensation can be based on factors including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Pain, suffering, and mental anguish from an injury
- Loss of income or ability to work due to loss of mobility
If a loved one dies after complications from a metal-on-metal hip implant, family members may be able to pursue claims for wrongful death damages, including:
- Conscious pain and suffering of a loved one prior to death
- Loss of financial support
- Pain, suffering, and mental anguish resulting from the loss of a loved one
Affected patients and their families are encouraged to seek the advice of a New York Zimmer Kinectiv lawsuit attorney to discuss their legal rights and options for compensation.
Contact Us For More Information
If you have been injured by a metal-on-metal hip replacement, or to find out more about a New York Zimmer Kinectiv lawsuit, contact Attorney Group for New York. You can fill out the form on this page, call us at the number listed at the top of the page, or email us at info@attorneygroup.com.
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 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 for New York today.
