Miami Defective Hip Implant Lawyer

Metal-on-metal implants carry particular risks

Metal-on-metal hip systems use metal for both sides of the joint. Friction between those surfaces can release metal particles and ions into surrounding tissue and the bloodstream. There are currently no FDA-approved metal-on-metal total hip replacement devices marketed in the United States, though patients who received one before May 2016 may still have it in place.

• Metal debris causing local tissue damage
• Elevated cobalt or chromium levels in the blood
• Pain, swelling, or limping near the implant site
• Loosening or premature device failure tied to wear and corrosion

Common ways a hip implant can fail

A hip system involves several parts working together, and problems can arise at any junction between them. Some failures develop gradually, while others appear suddenly.

• Loosening of the implant from surrounding bone
• Osteolysis, or bone loss triggered by wear particles
• Fracture or breakage of a component
• Dislocation of the artificial joint
• Infection around the implant
• Corrosion or fretting at modular neck junctions
• Leg length differences following surgery

Hip implant recalls worth reviewing

Several manufacturers have faced FDA action over specific hip components in recent years, and identifying whether your device matches one of these records can meaningfully shape your case.

• Exactech's expanded 2022 recall covering hip polyethylene liners packaged in bags missing an oxygen barrier layer, which the FDA tied to accelerated wear and component cracking
• Exactech's Connexion GXL acetabular liners, recalled over edge loading and premature wear in certain implant configurations
• Stryker's Rejuvenate and ABG II Modular Hip Stems, recalled in 2012 after the FDA identified device design as the cause of fretting and corrosion at the modular neck junction
• DePuy's ASR acetabular implants, recalled in 2010 following new revision rate data from post-market surveillance

Symptoms that may signal a hip implant problem

Some complications develop slowly and are easy to dismiss at first, especially if they worsen over weeks or months.

• New or worsening hip, groin, or leg pain
• Swelling around the joint
• Limping or a noticeable change in your gait
• Popping, grinding, clicking, or squeaking from the implant
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg

Compensation available in a hip implant case

A failed hip implant can bring costs that stretch years beyond the original surgery.

• Costs of revision surgery, including hospitalization and rehabilitation
• Diagnostic testing and future monitoring
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain, physical impairment, and emotional distress
• Ongoing physical therapy

Families who lose a loved one connected to a hip implant complication may also file a wrongful death claim to cover funeral costs and prior medical bills.