Shoulder Replacement Recall
FDA Class I Recall: Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder by Zimmer Biomet
February 15, 2017, the FDA announced a Class I recall of the Zimmer Biomet Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder implant because these devices are fracturing at a higher rate than stated in the labeling. If this occurs, patients may need revision surgery to remove or replace the device.
Complications may include:
- Bone loss
- Device failures, fractures and malpositioning
- Instability and weakness
Knee Replacement Complications
Some knee replacement manufacturers have implanted poorly designed devices into thousands of people who are now experiencing debilitating side effects. Many medical device companies have pushed their untested knee implant designs through a lax FDA approval process. That means they’re selling knee replacements that don’t have a clinical track record of testing and evaluation.
Studies show there is a rise in the number of Periprosthetic fractures of the femur after total knee replacement.
Many patients end up having second surgeries to replace the replacement. Called a revision surgery, it is often a much more difficult and complicated operation requiring a longer recovery time. Some of the more common symptoms of a defective knee include:
- Severe Pain
- Loosening of the knee joint implant
- Noises coming from the joint such as popping or clicking sounds
- Difficulty standing or walking
Metal on Metal Hip Defects
People with metal on metal hip implants have a much higher risk of serious complications than other types of hip devices. That’s because of problems with the way manufacturers designed these joints. Many patients experience pain, loose hip joints, and health problems from metal poisoning.
When the cup and the head of the joints rub together, it creates metal dust or particles. These tiny metal pieces can cause tissue death around the hip muscles and bones. Even more concerning is the possibility of metal poisoning throughout the body and bloodstream.
Any metal on metal hip replacement can become a medical problem to a patient who has a severe reaction. However, research shows that certain brands are failing at a much higher rate than others are. Those hip manufacturers and models include:
- DePuy ASR and Pinnacle
- Zimmer Durom Cup and MMC
- Stryker Rejuvenate, ABG II and Accolade TMZF Stem
- Biomet M2a Magnum
- Wright Medical Conserve and Profemur
Intense scrutiny over the safety of metal on metal hip implants has all but ended their use in the United States and other countries. Many hip manufacturers have stopped selling these systems completely.
What Should I Do Next?
Defective joint replacement lawsuits are often complicated. You need experienced attorneys who know how to navigate the system, the ins-and-outs of medical lawsuits, and hip and knee litigation.
The highly experienced attorneys at Nash & Franciskato have a long track record of successfully litigating defective orthopedic cases. Over the past several years, our dedicated trial lawyers have successfully obtained over $4.5 million in settlements for people whose joint replacement devices have failed.
Proven Results
- Over $50 Million in Collective Settlements involving defective knee and hip replacements.
Receive a Free Evaluation
Talk to one of our attorneys about your situation. Contact us for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
FAQ
Talk with your doctor. Not all patients have physical symptoms. Some people may not realize they have exceedingly high metal ion levels in their blood until tested by their doctor. Physical symptoms of a failed metal-on-metal hip include:
- Joint pain
- Loosening of the hip joint
- Clicking or squeaking sounds
- Trouble standing or walking
- Elevated Cobalt and/or Chromium levels in the blood
- Fluid around the hip joint
- Tissue death around the hip
There’s a very limited time in which you can file a lawsuit if you experience problems with your hip implant. Contact one of the attorneys at Nash & Franciskato to discuss your situation.