A new study found since 2007 that revision surgery involving metal-on-metal hip implants increased. Plus, the study uncovered that serious complications from the device are happening a lot quicker than previous research indicated.
About metal-on-metal hip implants
Metal-on-metal hip implants are very durable. This made them a great option for those with an active lifestyle. However, their durability comes at a price. The metal particles can shed, which causes metal poisoning. Plus, many studies show early failure rates. These implants are supposed to last decades not a few months. Several manufacturers, including DePuy and Stryker, have recalled one or more all-metal hip implants.
The Food and Drug Administration warned in 2013 that the components of metal hip implants can grind together over time, causing serious complications and sending tiny shards of metal into the body. Complications from metal hip implants may include inflammation, infection, severe pain, grinding noises, metallosis (metal poisoning) and revision surgery.
Revision surgery is a painful ordeal that may mean missed work, pricey medical bills and emotional suffering. This is why thousands of people have filed lawsuits against the company that made the hip implant that has caused them so much suffering.
About the New Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants Study
Researchers analyzed records from more than 24,500 patients who received metal-on-metal hip implants between 2003 and 2012. Their initial intention was to compare the DePuy Pinnacle hip system to others metal-on-metal hips. DePuy is at the center of almost 10,000 lawsuits since their implants caused serious complications, including revision surgery.
In fact, researchers found the increased revision surgery rates were with all metal-on-metal hip implants, not just the Pinnacle device. Because of the recently lowered threshold for revision, all brands saw higher revision rates.
Metal-on-Metal Hip Implant Dangers
Since they have entered the market, metal-on-metal implants have had some of the highest failure rates among all types of hip implants. Studies show these hip implants produce metal ions that enter a recipient’s bloodstream causing metallosis. Other complications include loosening of the hip implant, joint dislocation, and joint squeaking.
Hip implant manufacturers claim their implants are safe and more effective than previous models. However, the devices were less effective and caused a range of injuries. The corporations promised consumers effective hip replacements. Instead, they received implants with high rates of failure, pain and metal poisoning.
This is why thousands claim hip implant manufacturers made defective products and failed to warn about the risks. Metal-on-metal implants can cause various complications. These lead to painful surgeries to correct problems and replace the implants.
If You Were Injured by a Metal Hip Implant
Experts predict more metal hip implant lawsuits will occur in the next coming years. It is important to note that each hip device lawsuit is different. To get advice from a qualified hip device attorney, contact the dedicated attorneys at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm at 877-513-9517. We have decades of experience going up against large corporations and getting you the compensation you deserve.