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What is a Metal-on-Metal Hip Implant?

Metal-on-metal hip implants were first hailed as an orthopedic innovation that would change the lives of hip implant patients for the better.  Manufacturers claimed that they were longer-lasting and would allow for greater mobility and functionality than the older ceramic hip implants.  Because many hip patients are young and still desire to lead an active lifestyle, metal-on-metal hip implants quickly became a popular option, and almost every medical device manufacturer involved in orthopedic devices developed several of these implants.

What is the problem with Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants?

Unfortunately, metal-on-metal hip implants turned out to be very dangerous for patients.  Many patients who thought they were getting a superior, longer-lasting implant with fewer complications got just the opposite.  In the February 2012 issue of the medical journal BMJ, scientists reported on the many problems common to all MoM hip implants.

The most serious side effect of these hip implants is metallosis.  The metal components of the implant rub together and release metal particles into the blood, bone, and surrounding tissue.  The building up of this debris can cause serious problems in the patient, including implant failure, loosening of the implant, severe pain, necrosis of the surrounding tissue, and deterioration of surrounding bone.

Other serious side effects include implant loosening, dislocation, infection, osteonecrosis, and device failure.

Who Manufactures Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants?

Many device manufactures made, advertised, and sold MoM hip implants.  Many still manufacture them, but many still have been recalled.  Manufacturers include:

  • Stryker
  • DePuy
  • Zimmer
  • Smith & Nephew
  • Biomet
  • Wright Medical Technologies

Which Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants have been Recalled?

The following MoM hip implants have been recalled:

  • DePuy ASR XL Acetabular System
  • DePuy ASR Hip Resurfacing System
  • Biomet Mallory-Head
  • Exactech Metal liner of R3 Acetabular System
  • Exactech Opteon
  • Smith & Nephew R3 Acetabular metal liner
  • Stryker Rejuvenate and ABG II modular-neck hip stems
  • Stryker Omnifit
  • Styker Sulzer Inter-Op acetabular shell
  • Zimmer Durom Acetabular Component (Durum Cup)
  • Zimmer Mayo Hip

How Can an Attorney from Kirkendall Dwyer LLP Help Me?

Even if your hip implant has been recalled, you are not required to accept the device manufacturer’s compensation for its faulty product.  Oftentimes a lawsuit will provide you with a more complete recovery for your injuries.  The medical device manufacturers want to resolve their liability quickly and for as little money as possible.  They will pressure you to sign waivers and other documents and provide you with limited compensation for the effects of their mistakes.

You must be careful to retain and protect your legal rights in these situations.  If you are going to have the device removed, an attorney can make sure that you retain the device safely so that it can be used as evidence.  Many doctors will help manufacturers by sending your implant back to them.  This is not in your best interest.

In order to fully understand your rights and options, you need legal representation.  The attorneys at Kirkendall Dwyer LLP have extensive experience with metal-on-metal hip implant cases, and can answer all the questions you have immediately.  When you call our offices, you will speak directly to an attorney, not an intake specialist.  We believe in quality relationships from the first phone call.  And remember, we always work on a contingent fee basis, so there is no retainer fee.  There is no fee at all until we collect compensation for your injury.  You have nothing to lose; contact us today.
Click here to learn more about metal-on-metal hip implants at our dedicated Drug and Device website.