Richard Schlueter, a partner with Childers, Schlueter, & Smith, LLC, was recently quoted and appeared on cbatlanta.com regarding the DePuy Orthopaedics Recalled ASR Hip Implant.
DePuy recalled the ASR Hip System last year in August “because it was wearing out faster than expected in some patients.” According to Richard Schlueter, DePuy downplayed side effects that are far more serious. Schlueter and the firm of Childers Schlueter & Smith are representing more than 30 Georgians and dozens more citizens on a nationwide basis that have the recalled ASR hip implant from DePuy.
The video of this important news story by Stephany Fisher of CBS Atlanta News is shown here:
A very serious side effect from this recalled hip implant is metallosis. When the device wears, it is possible that it will shed metal particles and cause pain, swelling and permanent tissue damage. In addition to metallosis, Cobalt or Cobaltism, according to Schlueter, is the real concern.
DePuy declined an interview with cbatlanta.com after their request but did make the following statement:
“DePuy’s top priority is and always has been patient safety. In August 2010, DePuy issued a voluntary recall of the ASR Hip System after receiving new information from the UK National Joint Registry as part of the company’s ongoing surveillance of post-market data concerning the ASR Hip System. After reviewing this data, DePuy decided it was in the best interests of patients to voluntarily recall the ASR Hip System. This data showed a five-year revision rate of approximately 12 percent for the ASR Hip Resurfacing System and approximately 13 percent for the ASR XL Acetabular System, which was not in line with previously reported data.
DePuy’s previous analyses of collective post-market data from a variety of sources — including national joint registries, published literature, company-sponsored clinical trials, internal complaints data and external clinical research reports — had shown lower revision rates.
We understand that this recall is concerning for patients, their family members and surgeons. Since the recall decision was made, DePuy has worked to provide patients and surgeons with the information and support they need.
DePuy is committed to addressing reasonable and customary costs of testing and treatment for reasons related to the recall, including revision surgery if necessary. DePuy will also pay for reasonable expenses related to receiving care, such as lost wages and travel costs. …”
Mary Ellen Lebeda is a patient who received the DePuy recalled hip implant and is currently being represented by Mr. Schlueter and Childers, Schlueter & Smith. Lebeda, 41 years old, believed that surgery would make things better. In reality that did not work out—things got worse, much worse. Later, she found out the hip implant she had been given was at the forefront of a nationwide recall.
Like Ms. Lebeda, many patients with the DePuy ASR implants have many questions and are looking for answers concerning their legal rights. If you or someone you love has fallen victim to the failed DePuy ASR hip implant, contact CSS Firm for a free case evaluation and consultation for your defective hip implant. Our hip implant recall lawyers continue to review claims all over the country in an effort to help those affected by this dangerous product. Our experienced hip implant lawyers at Childers, Schlueter & Smith will work closely with you to ensure you get the care and justice you deserve.