Get the facts on this dangerous product from an experienced lawyer
Hip implants are supposed to free people from pain and help them move around better. But when those implants contain defective parts, they can have the opposite effect. New problems have been found with another hip implant system manufactured by the Stryker Corporation. The medical device attorneys at Coplan & Crane can help people who have been injured after receiving hip implants.
Metal-on-metal hip implant systems consist of several parts. A metal femoral stem is attached to the femur (thigh bone). The other end of the stem attaches to another metal part called a femoral head, which is shaped like a ball. The femoral head fits into a cup structure that is anchored to the pelvis.
In August 2016, the Stryker Corporation sent a letter to orthopedic surgeons advising them not to use any LFIT V40 femoral heads manufactured before 2011. This part is used in several of its hip implant systems, including Accolade TMZF, Hfx, Citation, LASST, Accolade II, Anato, Secur-Fit Advanced and LSP76. The letter noted the complaints they received about taper lock failure with these femoral heads were “higher than expected.” Taper locks connect the femoral head to the neck portion of the femoral stem.
Serious side effects associated with defective hip implants
When the taper lock fails, it can cause several problems. For example:
- The femoral head can loosen or break (fracture)
- Metallic debris can be created, infiltrating and damaging surrounding tissue
- The range of movement for the hip implant may become limited
The person with the hip plant can experience pain, inflammation and loss of mobility.
The only way to fix the problem is revision surgery to remove and replace the defective parts. This causes more pain, suffering, and hardship-and medical expenses-for the person with the implant. And some could be left with permanent damage to soft tissue, muscles and bone.
Health advisories around the world regarding Stryker hip implants
In September, the Australian government issued a “Hazard Alert” advising consumers and health professionals about the risk of taper lock failure in these products. And in October, the Canadian government issued a recall of the LFIT V40 femoral head. A similar recall is expected in the United States. But if you have a Stryker hip implant and are experiencing problems, you can take steps now to protect your rights.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. We’ll go over the details of your case and explain your legal options. Our goal is to get the problem fixed so you are free from pain and have as much mobility as possible. And we also want to make sure you are fully compensated for the losses caused by the defective part.
We are tireless advocates for people who are dealing with the effects of defective hip implants in Chicago, across Illinois and throughout the midwest. We’ll conduct a thorough investigation, reviewing medical records, consulting experts and going through every piece of evidence to help build a strong case. We don’t rest until we reach a successful resolution of your case. And we work on a contingency fee-if we don’t win, you owe us nothing.
This is not the first time Stryker has faced legal action regarding hip implant products. Stryker is a multibillion-dollar corporation with teams of lawyers at its disposal. If you’ve been injured by a defective part in a hip implant, you need an attorney who has the experience and resources needed to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us at 800-394-6002.
