A joint statement was published in the January issue of the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery that warned patients of the risks associated with metal-on-metal hip implants. Since 1996, more than 1 million metal-on-metal hips have been implanted worldwide. Yet studies have shown that the failure of total hip arthroplasty with metal-on-metal bearings was 2-3x higher than hip implants without it. The reason: adverse tissue reactions caused by metal debris leads to increased failure rates.
When metal-on-metal hip implants were first introduced, they were hailed as being perfect for younger and more active patients. However, nothing could be farther from the truth and their failure rate has skyrocketed—as have lawsuits. In fact, DePuy Orthopaedics announced that its artificial hip implants had a failure rate as high as 13%.
Complications have gained national attention and multi-district litigation is pending for many manufacturers. In fact, many metal-on-metal hip implant manufacturers have issued recalls of their popular but dangerous products. In 2008, there was a voluntary recall of Zimmer’s Durom Acetabular hip system and in 2012, Stryker recalled its Rejuvenate Modular and ABG II hips.
Currently, there are more than 12,000 DePuy ASR hip lawsuits pending and experts expect Johnson & Johnson to pay out more than $2.4 billion in damages. Injured victims have reported Metallosis, bone erosion, psuedotumors, infection, tissue death, pain, and loss of mobility. Revision surgeries are often necessary and patients undergo serious medical issues, such as elevated cobalt and chromium in their blood.
In fact, the possibility of heavy metal poisoning after a metal hip implant is such a concern that the FDA suggested all patients who are experiencing pain in their hip joint should consult a physician to obtain regular x-rays and blood testing.
If you or someone you love has experienced complications after receiving a metal-on-metal hip implant, it is important to consult a Denver hip implant attorney immediately. You may be able to take part in the MDL that is currently pending against many hip implant manufacturers.
