Stryker Hip Replacement Lawsuits

Global Settlement Reached in Stryker Hip Replacement Lawsuits

Stryker Announces Recall of of Rejuvenate and ABG II Hip Devices

July 6, 2012—Stryker Orthopaedics announced a global recall of the Rejuvenate and ABG II modular-neck stems. The recall was prompted by reports of corrosion and fretting. Fretting describes a situation where corrosion is worsened due to abrasive wear. These conditions can cause pain and swelling in patients with the devices. Stryker has encouraged patients with the affected devices to contact their surgeons for an evaluation.

The announcement follows an April 2012 action by Stryker to recall the Rejuvenate device in Canada. It is not clear why the company allowed doctors to continue to implant the device in the United States when defects led it to suspend sales in Canada months earlier.

Dangers Associated with Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants

Metal-on-metal implants have been marketed as a more durable option than traditional hip devices that incorporate ceramic components. However, the safety of metal-on-metal implants has been scrutinized since the recall of the DePuy ASR hip device. The most prevalent problem is that the metal components can rub against each other, releasing chromium and cobalt into tissues and the bloodstream. This condition is referred to as metallosis.

A study published in The Lancet reported failure rates of six percent in some metal-on-metal implants, versus only 1.7 to 2.3 percent in traditional implants. The researchers concluded that metal-on-metal have “poor implant survival compared with other options and should not be implanted.”

The Stryker implants are not considered traditional metal-on-metal implants as they contain a ceramic cup. This means they do not place a metal ball against a metal socket. However, the devices place a metal femoral stem against a metal neck. Regular wear on the junction between these components can increase the risk of metallosis.

Many law firms charge percentage fees as high as 45%. We charge 33⅓% on Stryker hip replacement cases and we’re paid only if we win your case and you collect. We also advance all of the costs associated with your claim.

If you have a Stryker hip device and you are concerned about your health, promptly consult your physician for an evaluation. If you have been injured as a result of a Stryker hip device, you may be entitled to compensation. You should act immediately to contact an attorney experienced in Stryker hip lawsuits.