From 2002 to 2013, Consumers Union determined there were 578 recalls on hip replacements.
A majority of these recalls are from six manufacturers: Biomet, DePuy, Smith & Nephew, Zimmer, Wright and Stryker. Stryker issued the most recalls (231), while Depuy followed a close second (150).
According to an article published in the Consumerist, more than 10 percent of all hip implants have been considered a class I recall. According the FDA, a class I recall is “a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Some patients who have received one of these metal-on-metal hip replacements have experienced serious debilitating symptoms due to the debris and metal shavings that flake off of the device, entering the bloodstream. Some people have even experienced side-effects such as cardiomyopathy and neurological issues.
Many consumer groups believe these products should come with a warranty and that these companies should stand behind their products.
According to Lisa McGiffert, director of Consumers Union’s Safe Patient Project:
“Patients have a right to know how long medical device manufacturers are willing to stand by their product. Medical device companies claim that current law provides adequate protection for patients and that their implants are dependable and safe. If that’s the case, they should have no objection to offering warranties to back up those claims.”
If you have experienced symptoms of inflammation, groin pain, or another serious ailment after a hip replacement, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you are suffering due to a hip recall, contact an experienced defective medical device attorney.