FDA recently launched a website dedicated solely to describing the side effects and risks associated with metal-on-metal hip implants. This comes after DePuy Orthopaedics recalled their ASR hip implant last year.
The FDA explains that metallosis is the major concern associated with metal hip implants. This condition occurs when the metal-on-metal components of the hip implant device rub together and then release dangerous levels of chromium and cobalt into the bloodstream.
The FDA says, “Different people will react to these metal particles in different ways; However, it is known that over time, the metal particles around some implants can cause damage to bone and/or tissue surrounding the implant and joint. Such a reaction may cause the implant to become loose or cause pain. Ultimately this can require a revision surgery where the old device is removed and replaced with another one.”
DePuy Orthopaedics recalled about 93,000 hip devices last year in August of 2010. The two systems were ASR Hip Resurfacing and ASR XL Acetabular System. For patients using these systems, 12 to 13 percent of them had to undergo a second surgery about five years after the initial surgery. Many experienced pain from this.
Other side effects of metal-on-metal hip implants are pain in the groin, swelling near the hip joint and a limp while walking.
The FDA indicates that they are taking precautions to ensure the safety of these particular types of hip implant. Check out their website here.
Other Depuy ASR Hip Implant News
Broadspire manages limited reimbursement programs for recalled DePuy and Stryker hip implants—but these benefits are not guaranteed and may impact your legal rights. Consult an attorney before proceeding.
DePuy has announced a second round of ASR hip implant settlements for patients with revision surgeries through January 2015. Learn who qualifies and what this new proposal could mean for you.
DePuy has proposed a major settlement for U.S. patients who underwent revision surgery due to recalled ASR hip implants, potentially offering compensation through base and supplemental award funds.
A California jury awarded $8.38 million to a DePuy ASR hip implant victim, finding the device was defectively designed—marking a pivotal outcome in the first jury trial of its kind.
Federal prosecutors are investigating Johnson & Johnson’s marketing of recalled hip implants amid growing concerns over device failures and the company’s prior legal troubles.
Over 10,000 DePuy ASR hip implant lawsuits have been filed nationwide, with multiple Bellwether trials underway. Learn where cases stand and what this could mean for affected patients.
