• 06
  • January
    2011

As the American population grows older, yet seeks to remain active, the field of joint replacements and joint implants is expected to continue expanding. Instead of accepting a slower pace as we age, we have instead turned to medical science to help us repair or replace joints that have worn out or deteriorated due to injury or a lifetime of hard work. Over the last several years, surgical procedures for knee and hip replacements, in particular, have become much more common.

Unfortunately, not all of the implants being used have turned out to be effective. A widespread recall of hip replacement implants made by DePuy Orthopedics, a Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, has given rise to a number of defective products lawsuits across the country. The initial recall was announced last August and covered what is called the ASR XL Acetabular System and the ASR Hip Resurfacing system.

The problems with the DePuy hip implants seem to center around wear that leads to failure of the implant and the eventual need to re-implant the device. Before the recall was announced, some studies had shown that the recalled implants were failing at a rate of around 12 percent, a high failure rate that some believe should have resulted in warnings or a much earlier recall.

The failure of the implant typically results in intense pain for the patient and the re-implanting procedure can be quite painful and require a long healing time. Concerns have also arisen regarding the damage the implant might do when in fails. In particular, in is possible for the failed implant to produce metal shavings that could irritate the site of the implant and even get into the bloodstream. Some fear these metal shavings could lead to heart failure or dementia in some implant recipients.

If you or someone you know have received a DePuy hip replacement, you may want to check with your doctor to make sure the device is functioning properly. If you have experienced an increase in pain, or any other side effects after the procedure, you may also want to obtain legal advice about making a claim for compensation.

Source: ABC News, Hip Implant Recalled Amid Concerns About Heart Failure, Dementia, Steve Daniels and Silvia Gambardella 12/1/10