Metal on metal hip replacements were supposed to be a suitable replacement for similar devices that utilized ceramic and plastic. Companies like DePuy emphasized an increased shelf life and improved mobility over previous models.
However, here we are years later, with a recall issued on such products and thousands of people from all over the world suffering the catastrophic impact of a prosthetic hip failure. What was supposed to last 15 to 25 years with proper care is failing after less than five years in one out of approximately every eight patients.
In the event of a device failure, the only treatment option is a painful corrective surgery that entails a lengthier rehabilitation process than the initial operation. Plus, the success rate of these second procedures is far less than the original surgery.
As if that weren’t shameful enough, The Food and Drug Administration is looking into reports about the device causing an inordinate amount of metal particulates to enter the blood stream. This can occur because the two components of a metal on metal hip implant device rub against each other during use. This can create metal shavings that make their way to the blood, and hence the entire circulatory system. Right now, studies are being conducted to look into the risks of heightened levels of metal in the blood. Initial findings suggest that this metal blood poisoning is linked with muscle damage, swelling, and even non-cancerous tumors.
How can you tell if your metal on metal hip implant has failed? Be on the lookout for these possible symptoms:
If your hip implant device has failed, then you owe it to yourself to discuss your legal options with a qualified hip replacement lawyer. The Stampfle Law Firm has an experienced staff well-versed in the issues surrounding these defective products, and we want to hear from you. Let us file your defective hip implant claim so that we can give you a helping hand every step of the way.
Call us today at 1-843-839-3377 to get started. Our representation and expert legal advice comes on a contingency fee basis. This basically means that instead of a flat hourly rate, we only get paid a certain percentage of the amount of compensation we gain for you.
You have questions, and we want to help. By calling us right now, you can receive a free consultation from a member of our highly qualified legal team. Justice is just a phone call away. Contact the hip replacement lawyers of the Stampfle Law Firm today!