A total hip replacement is a major surgery that replaces an injured or damaged hip joint with a prosthesis. If this initial surgery fails in some way, subsequent surgery is required to correct the problem. This subsequent surgery is called “revision.” Typical symptoms that you may have a failed total hip replacement are pain in the hip, groin, or thigh as well as limited mobility. Some people describe feeling that the hip joint might “give out.”
Signs of a defective hip prosthesis include the following:
- Revision Surgery
- Loosening and misalignment of the replacement hip
- Infection and pain
- Bone fractures
- Hip dislocation
- Metal sensitivity/allergy
- Pseudotumor (a soft tissue mass that may be the result of a toxic reaction to metal particles or metal wear and tear debris)
- ALVAL (Aseptic Lumphocyte Dominated Vasculitis Associated Lesion) an adverse tissue reaction to metal particles and ions
The Zimmer® Durom® Hip Cup and the Zimmer® hip replacement method were heavily promoted as ways to ensure a quicker recovery and provide patients with more mobility than with traditional hip replacements. In 2008 Zimmer® issued a recall of the Durom® Cup over concerns about the cup’s surface.
In response to growing physician discontent and patient complaints, Zimmer® halted sales of the Durom® Cup in July 2008. Unfortunately, Zimmer® had already sold over 12,000 of these products. Zimmer® finally issued a recall of the Durom® Cup in September 2008.
In July 2010, the New York Times published an article detailing disputes between Zimmer and two of its top consultants. In response to that article, United States Senator Charles Grassley sent a letter to Zimmer® asking it to disclose how it tracks the long-term performance of its orthopedic devices. Senator Grassley’s letter was particularly concerned with the tracking of safety concerns and problems.
How do I know if I have a Zimmer® artificial hip?
Talk to the surgeon who performed your hip replacement surgery. If you are unsure who performed your surgery, talk to your primary care provider or the facility where you had your surgery. Since Zimmer makes several types of hip replacement products, be sure to ask for the specific name of your artificial hip. Our experienced hip replacement lawyers can assist you in explaining which hip replacement product actually you received, and your legal rights.
If you or someone you love have fallen victim to a failed Zimmer® Hip Replacement, contact McDivitt Law Firm for a free case evaluation and consultation for your defective hip implant. Our hip implant recall lawyers continue to help those affected by this dangerous product. Our experienced hip implant lawyers at McDivitt Law Firm will work closely with you to ensure you get the care and justice you deserve. Click here for a free and confidential evaluation form or call us toll free 877-931-6840.