DePuy Recall

DePuy Orthapaedics, Inc. has voluntarily announced a DePuy recall of its ASR hip replacement device, asserting that there is a higher failure rate than expected. The FDA has received hundreds of reports of failure of these devices.

The DePuy hip recall was due to several ways that these devices can fail:

Metal Particles: The ball and socket structure of the hip joint moves against each other, and generates very small metallic particles. These particles cause fluid to collect, and cause pain and swelling.

Loosening: The implant can become unattached from the bone;

Fracture: The bone around the implant can break or fracture;

Dislocation: The two parts of the hip join are no longer aligned.

All of the above referenced problems will cause pain, swelling, difficulty walking. While these symptoms are common after initially receiving a hip replacement, if the symptoms go away and come back, it may be a clue that the device has failed. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, if it important to contact your hip surgeon for an assessment.

Your doctor may conduct several tests to determine if your hip is operating properly such as an ex-ray, and a blood test. The ex-ray will show any visual abnormalities of the hip. The blood test will look for unusually high metals in the blood such as chromium and cobalt. MRIs and ultrasound testing may also be used.

If it is determined that the hip replacement has failed, it may be necessary to have a revision surgery where a new hip replacement is used.

It is important to note that only replacements after 2003 manufactured by DePuy are part of the DePuy recall. If you have received a DePuy hip replacement after 2003 and are experiencing any symptoms it is important to not only speak with your doctor, but also a qualified lawyer from the DePuy ASR Lawsuit Center. There is never any cost to speak to one of our attorneys.