Metal-on-Metal Hip Replacement Failures

More than one million Americans have a knee or hip replaced each year to relieve pain, improve movement and help the joint function better. Hip replacement surgery is expected to produce positive results for 20 years or more. However, many metal-on-metal (MoM) hip implants are failing in as little as five years or less.

Defective MoM implants can lead to loss of muscle mass, fluid build-up, pseudo tumors and carcinogenesis, the development of cancerous cells. One of the most serious conditions, called metallosis, or metal poisoning, is identified through a blood test. If left untreated, metallosis can cause intense pain, tissue and bone death and even organ failure. Initial side effects can include confusion, feelings of malaise, GI disorders, recurring infections, emotional disturbances, dizziness, skin rashes, headaches and feelings of burning, tingling or numbness in the extremities.

Signs of a defective implant may also include pain in the groin, hip or leg regions, swelling near the hip joint, a limp or change in walking ability, or popping, clicking or squeaking from the hip joint. Hip dislocation may occur when the muscle deteriorates. Depending on the severity, these and other complications may require unexpected correctional surgery.

Recently, the premature failure rates and design flaws of MoM hip replacements have prompted several manufacturers to voluntarily recall one or more of their products. As a result, many lawsuits have been filed against multiple manufacturers including Biomet Inc, Styker Orthopaedics and DePuy ASR, a Johnson & Johnson company. Revision surgery is generally a pre-requisite for any MoM hip legal case, but it is not necessary to pursue a claim, if conditions for revision are evident.

The offices of NRS Injury Law are here to passionately advocate on your behalf. If you or a loved one has suffered a complication of a defective MoM hip replacement, call us now at 216-762-0972, or toll-free at (855) GOT-HURT.