Biomet
Problems with a component of the hip replacement devices manufactured by Biomet led to their recall in September 2001. The ball portion of the artificial hip joint was found to be faulty; it had a propensity to fracture and require replacement surgery. One of the materials used in the device was found to become unstable, which led to its recall.
Biomet, a U.S. maker of artificial hips, used a faulty part which came from a French manufacturer, who also supplied seven other American artificial hip manufacturers with the affected part.
Case Background
Hip replacement surgery is done for patients who suffer from osteoarthritis of the hip, which is develops from wear and tear on the hip joint and causes the patient severe discomfort and decreased mobility. Patients may also require a hip replacement if they suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammatory autoimmune disease), a traumatic injury to the hip, an infection in the area, or a developmental abnormality of the hip.
Hip replacement surgery is generally considered an option only when other measures, such as anti-inflammatory medications, have not been successful.
Health Risks and Side Effects
Symptoms of a broken hip replacement device include:
- pain in the hip area;
- a sudden inability to walk;
- limited motion of the joint; or
- a grinding sensation in the joint.
Patients may hear an actual pop when the component breaks. This is something that needs to be looked at by a physician immediately. The faulty components must be replaced, and the patient must undergo another hip replacement surgery.
Not all hip implants use this particular material, so those with components made from other materials, such as aluminum or steel, should not be affected. The disintegration of the device appears to be occurring between 13 and 27 months after implantation in affected patients.
Do I Qualify for a Biomet lawsuit?
If you or a member of your family has had to have a hip replacement repaired and the hip replacement device was manufactured by Biomet, then you may qualify for a lawsuit claim. Thousands of people have already filed claims.
In America today there are thousands of mass lawsuits and billions of dollars in unclaimed monies available for victims. If you have been wronged by a major corporation, you may be entitled to compensation for treatments and pain and suffering
If you believe you have been wronged, take action to protect your rights.
Fill out the form to the right or call 1.800.387.4262 if you need additional information or want to discuss a potential claim with an attorney. All inquiries are kept strictly confidential.
If the inquiry is accepted for further review, you will receive a prompt response (usually the same day or by the next business day). Local counsel may be used for this matter.
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