Northwest Indiana Hip Replacement Injury Lawyers

Hip Replacement Defects And Metal-On-Metal Hip Replacement Side Effects

While many people obtain hip implants to reduce pain and achieve greater mobility, metal-on-metal hip implants have caused numerous problems that were often much more serious than the problem the implant was supposed to resolve. Theodoros & Rooth, P.C., represents clients in cases involving hip replacement defects, and we bring extensive experience to every case we handle. Our Northwest Indiana medical device injury attorneys have more than 110 years of combined legal experience to apply to our clients’ cases. With metal-on-metal hip implant claims, complex medical issues and technical matters related to the design and manufacture of the implants are likely to arise. Fortunately, we have the resources to investigate and build evidence to support our clients’ claims.

Call our offices at 219-733-8633 for a free consultation.

Problems With Metal-On-Metal Hip Implants

The mechanics of any type of hip replacement involve attaching a cup to the pelvic bone and attaching a ball to the top of the femur. The ball then turns in the socket the way an individual’s natural ball and socket made of bone would function. The concept behind a metal-on-metal hip replacement is for a metal ball to rotate in a metal socket or cup. In theory, the concept makes sense and would provide greater durability through the use of metals like chromium or cobalt. However, in practice, when the individual walks, runs or performs other movements, the friction created between the ball and socket can result in the release of metallic particles. These microscopic metallic particles can enter the bloodstream and/or embed in tissue, creating medical complications. Some metal-on-metal hip implant complications may include the following:

• Intense pain in the hip, thigh and groin areas
• Metal poisoning
• Pseudotumor formation
• Intense inflammation
• Dying tissue
• Dislocation
• Infection
• Bone fractures
• Muscle loss
• Hip replacement misalignment or loosening
• Trouble moving, standing or walking
• Rejection of the implant by the body, instead of acceptance into the bone

Another complication is the need for revision surgery to remove the hip implant and replace it with a ceramic or plastic version that has fewer complications. Initially, many companies promoted the superior benefits of metal-on-metal hip implants – that they would last longer and allow a more active and athletic lifestyle. Consequently, numerous patients sought replacement surgeries to take advantage of the benefits. Unfortunately, in many cases, the opposite occurred. These types of complications do not occur with ceramic and plastic hip replacements. Metal rubbing against metal is a design flaw, and through lawsuits, numerous patients can hold hip replacement manufacturers accountable for their adverse effects.

Manufacturers Of Defective Hip Replacement Devices

The following manufacturers of hip replacement products have faced investigations and lawsuits related to potential defects and serious side effects:

• DePuy for its ASR XL Acetabular Cup System
• DePuy for its Pinnacle Acetabular Cup system
• Zimmer for its Durom Acetabular Component
• Smith & Nephew for its Birmingham Hip Implant
• Stryker Corporation for its Rejuvenate Modular and ABG II modular-neck hip stems
• Wright Medical Technology for its Conserve Plus

Seek Justice After Your Injuries

If you suffered an injury as a result of a defective hip replacement, you should not be the one who has to cover the costs of your recovery. Let our experienced team help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Find out if you may have a case. Call a Northwest Indiana hip replacement defect lawyer at 219-733-8633 or email us for a consultation today!