Several formerly popular models of Stryker hip replacements have been recalled due to safety and quality concerns after thousands were implanted in patients and caused serious injuries and even death.
The models that have been recalled included the Rejuvenate and the ABG II and are metal-on-metal hip replacements. In this style of prosthesis, the ball and socket of the hip are removed and replaced with a metal ball and a metal socket, making the replacement joint a metal piece connecting with a metal piece.
Since this metal-on-metal style of replacement began being used, thousands of patients have suffered from serious side effects including pain and discomfort, often requiring removal and replacement of the defective pieces.
Why Were Some Stryker Models Recalled?
Monitoring of patients that received the Rejuvenate or the ABG II hip replacements revealed some alarming information. The metal used in the implants was likely to fail at the “neck” of the hip or the section where the top of the leg bone connects with the ball of the hip joint. When this metal section failed, metal fragments imbedded into the tissue of the joint and caused pain and swelling in some patients.
Many of these models have been removed from patients’ hips and replaced with non-defective implants. Even when this occurs, though, the threat caused by the Rejuvenate or the ABG II is not entirely eliminated. Fragments of metal may have broken from the implant and lodged into the tissues of a patient before removal of the joint, meaning that health threats caused by the metal fragments can remain permanently after removal.
Besides causing pain and swelling, these metal fragments can cause metal poisoning in a patient and can even cause death. Anyone who has received one of these defective hip implants should contact their surgeon immediately to discuss any immediate medical treatment that may be needed.
Which Models Were Recalled?
Several models of Stryker hip implants have been recalled. The Trident was recalled in 2008 and the Rejuvenate and ABG II were recalled in 2012. Additionally the Stryker Accolade femoral stem implant has been recalled for safety concerns. It is important to note that these recalled implants have already been used in patients, meaning that thousands of people who underwent hip replacements have later learned that their replacements are defective and dangerous.
If you do not know what type of hip implant you have, you should contact your surgeon who can inform you of the manufacturer and model of your prosthesis. Your surgeon should also have a complete list of all recalled hip models as well as what types of symptoms might indicate an issue with your specific hip replacement.
What Are The Symptoms of a Defective Hip Implant?
The symptoms of a failing hip implant can vary from patient to patient and therefore it is important to discuss the status of your prosthesis with your physician regularly.
Some patients experience pain and discomfort in their hip joint or describe an achy feeling, especially with movement and use, like walking. Others have swelling in their hips that limit mobility and range of motion. Some patients experience excruciating pain and lose the ability to walk.
One of the common conditions associated with these defective implants is metal toxicity, especially chromium and cobalt. As these implants fail, small pieces of metal break off and lodge themselves in the soft tissues of the hip joint where the metal continues to deteriorate. The metallic components are released into the blood stream and contaminate the blood, making patients experience symptoms of metal toxicity. These symptoms can include chronic pain throughout the body, extreme tiredness, gastrointestinal issues, depression, dizziness, mood swings, headaches, and neurosystem disturbances.
If you are experiencing any symptoms related to your hip replacement, you should contact your surgeon or physician immediately.
What Should I Do If My Hip Replacement Has Been Recalled?
If you have a hip replacement that has been recalled or if you have complications with your current hip replacement, you should contact your surgeon or doctor as soon as possible to discuss your medical options.
You may also have a legal claim related to your defective implant. An attorney can help you determine if you have a claim for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, loss of a normal life, disfigurement/scarring, and any other damages you have incurred as a result of the defective implant.
The personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. are prepared to discuss your case with you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you have a Stryker hip replacement or previously had one and you have suffered as a result of that implant, call the Stryker hip replacement lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today toll free at (855) LAW-CHICAGO (529-2442) or locally at (312) 924-7575 for a free consultation. If you prefer, contact us online to discuss your potential case.
If you have suffered due to a Stryker hip implant, call Abels & Annes, P.C. now at (855) LAW-CHICAGO or Contact Us online for a free, no-obligation case consultation.