According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, approximately 175,000 people undergo hip replacement surgery every year in the United States, and that amount is on the rise. Hip replacements may reduce pain and increase mobility for sufferers of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis, or other hip joint damage or deterioration. Many patients who undergo a hip replacement opt to have a metal prosthesis, referred to as a metal on metal implant (MoM implant).
Unfortunately these MoM implants have caused serious complications and side effects in patients, some of which may require additional surgical procedures to repair or may keep the patient from walking or standing. As a result of these injuries, many patients have filed lawsuits against the implant manufacturers. There are six main manufacturers that face numerous lawsuits: DePuy, Stryker, Zimmer, Biomet, Smith & Nephew, and Wright Medical. If you have suffered injury due to MoM hip implant, contact the Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, in Clearwater, Florida to discuss how you may recover.
Allegations regarding Hip Implant Injuries
Though all hip implants have potential risks due to regular wear and tear, MoM implants have particular risks that implants made from other materials do not. Because the metal ball and cup rub together with every step, metal particles are often released into the area surrounding the implant and even into the patient’s bloodstream. As a result, patients with MoM implants often experience the following side effects and injuries:
- Metal poisoning
- Soft tissue damage
- Bone damage
- Loosening of the implant
- Severe pain
- Decreased mobility
- Infections
- Swelling and inflammation
- Complete failure of the hip joint
- Surgery to repair or replace the implant
To date, thousands of patients with MoM implants have filed legal claims against the different manufacturers due to severe complications caused by their implants. Additionally, patients claim that the companies engaged in deceptive marketing by failing to properly warn of the side effects that may occur with these implants. These plaintiffs state they never would have chosen a MoM implant if they knew in advance all the potential complications they might have suffered.
Contact an experienced Clearwater Hip Implant Attorney for a free consultation
Undergoing a hip replacement should reduce discomfort and not cause additional pain and complications. Unfortunately, thousands of Americans have suffered additional injuries and losses due to having a metal on metal hip implant. The hip implant companies have a duty to sell a safe product and to adequately warn patients of the risks so that they may make an educated decision regarding their hip replacement surgery. Anyone who has suffered unnecessary injury due to a metal on metal hip implant should contact the experienced medical device attorneys at the Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, for assistance. Do not hesitate to call (727) 451-6900 to set up a free consultation and case evaluation today.