What are the side effects associated with DePuy hip replacement products?
Metallosis is the primary serious side effect of hip replacement products. This condition, which results from the buildup of metal in the body’s soft tissues, can cause serious damage to the body that affects mobility.
Symptoms of the metal toxicity of this condition, which most often involves cobalt and chromium, can be much more far-reaching and range in terms of seriousness. Hypothyroidism and cardiomyopathy are two notable side effects.
In secondary hip replacement surgeries, ruptured tendons have also been observed. These cases require care and treatment.
General risks associated with hip replacement surgery, although low, include implant dislocation, blood clots, and infection.
Why did my doctor implant a DePuy hip replacement product if it has these side effects?
DePuy is a longstanding orthopedic company that particularly has a strong tradition of reliable knee replacement products. Some of the hip replacement systems now embroiled in controversy originally showed promise as products that would enable patients to experience greater flexibility and range of motion.
What places me at a higher risk of adverse effects in having a DePuy product implanted?
Although the main age range for patients requiring hip replacement is approximately 50 to 80 years old, patients of all ages who receive a hip replacement product or system are at risk of metallosis.
Patients with a history of infection, weak bones, bone loss, injured nerves in the hip area, and injured or nonfunctional muscles in the hip area are at greater risk of complications resulting from an implant surgery.
Has any legal action been taken against DePuy based on these findings?
Since 2010, lawsuits have been underway with DePuy hip replacement. Multiple cases were consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in 2010, and several claims have been settled in the past few years. Recently, Johnson & Johnson, of which DePuy is a subsidiary, agreed to pay approximately $4 billion in settlements across more than 7,000 cases.
How do I know if I have a viable case in the DePuy lawsuit?
If you or someone you love has had a DePuy hip replacement product or system implanted that has caused metallosis and required a secondary procedure, or that resulted in pain, discomfort, or injury or other documented side effects, you may have a case for filing a claim against DePuy.
What should I do if I want to pursue legal action?
If you have been adversely affected by a DePuy hip replacement product or believe you have suffered from one of the serious conditions linked to such products, first see a qualified health care professional. You should also report the incident to your physician and the FDA.
To find out if you are eligible to file a claim in the DePuy lawsuit, contact McDivitt Law Firm at 877-846-4878 or click here for a free and confidential case evaluation.