Millions of people have medical devices implanted in them when their own body parts fail them, but with these procedures comes the risk of defective medical devices and, in those cases, the need for a product liability attorney.
When Knee Replacements Go Wrong
According to the American Joint Replacement Registry (2023 Annual Report. Rosemont, IL: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2023), nearly 400,000 hip and knee replacements occurred in 2022, which was a 23% increase from 2021. These are very serious surgeries that require the expertise of a skilled surgeon, but just as important is the safety of the device that is implanted in the patient. In 2012, Stryker voluntarily recalled two of its hip replacement devices: the Rejuvenate and the ABG II modular-neck stems. All global distribution of these defective medical devices was terminated following complications in the post-market surveillance, according to a July 6, 2012, press release issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Stryker Rejuvenate hip implant was approved by the FDA in 2008 and the Stryker ABG II hip replacement device was approved in 2009, but soon after they were being used, it was noted that these devices cause an extreme amount of pain and failed in patients. Corrosion of the metal in the devices can shed into a person’s system causing an increased risk of blood poisoning called metallosis. Some of the devices loosened causing pain and difficulty walking; others caused bone fractures and dislocation. Many of the surgeries will require revision and many patients are consulting a product liability attorney.
We Will Help You Seek Justice
If you have had a hip replacement and are unsure of which device was implanted in you, contact your surgeon. Clifford Law Offices’ product liability lawyers represent a number of people who have suffered as a result of defective or failed medical devices, including the Stryker hip implants. If you believe you have a legal cause of action as a result of complications from your hip replacement, contact Clifford Law Offices at (312) 899-9090 or fill out a contact form. A member of the legal staff can provide you with information on your next steps.
