A hip replacement is a major surgery that poses serious potential complications under the best of circumstances. However, with some metal-on-metal hip implants, the risks are significantly higher because of inherent design flaws.
If you or a loved one has experienced complications from a metal-on-metal hip replacement, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Many of these complications are caused by hip replacements grinding off tiny metal molecules of chromium and cobalt ions. In some cases, this metal debris is wearing off of the devices and entering the space around the implant causing localized damage. This includes infection of the soft tissue and bone surrounding the implant. For some patients, this is causing significant pain and affecting their ability to even walk.
For other patients, the metal particles from metal-on-metal hip replacements are entering the bloodstream and causing a host of problems that are impacting the heart, thyroid, and nervous system. This condition, called metallosis, may also increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
Because of the complications linked to metal-on-metal hip implants, in 2011, the FDA ordered 21 makers of the devices to answer questions regarding their safety. Since then, some of the leading hip replacement manufacturers have recalled their implants.
One metal-on-metal hip replacement made by DePuy Orthopaedics, a Johnson & Johnson Company, has been a focus of these complications. Some patients with this implant began experiencing problems within a few years. In some cases, these problems have led to severe and permanent injury requiring additional surgery. Patients with this type of implant are at a far greater risk of requiring additional hip replacements.
What You Need to Know Now
If you have a metal-on-metal hip replacement implant, it’s important to obtain regular evaluation from your healthcare professional. Additional surgery may be recommended. In other cases, recalled implants may not need to be removed. However, implants should be closely watched, and suspicious symptoms should be evaluated.
If you suspect that there is a problem with an implant, carefully detail symptoms and contact your healthcare provider right away. If it is suspected that your symptoms are being caused by your metal-on-metal hip implant, it may be beneficial to contact Hodes Milman for a free case evaluation. We are currently helping patients dealing with the effects of these faulty devices by enabling them to receive fair compensation for their injuries. To obtain additional information or to schedule a free consultation, call us at (949) 640-8222.
