Not long ago, the American public was shocked with the knowledge that Johnson & Johnson had released a defective hip implant that was prone to fail and deteriorate. Countless patients have received these implants and are scrambling to get revision surgeries before they cause any permanent damage. With all signs pointing towards metal-on-metal to be the culprit of the failed ASR device, many are expecting the similar DePuy Pinnacle hip replacement system to be a means to an end.
There are a growing number of complaints that the design of the Pinnacle is also defective. This could lead to similar results as the ASR unit such as failures, metal toxicity, and joint slippage.
The Dangers of Metal-On-Metal
These particular product defects are not new, many organizations have been complaining about their implications for some time. According to the Los Angeles Times, "metal on metal" implants have been used in about one-third of the approximately 25,000 hip replacements performed annually in this country. The devices, whose ball-and-socket joints are made from metals like cobalt and chromium, became widely used in the belief that they would be more durable than previous types of implants.
Unfortunately, these metal-on-metal devices could be releasing metal shavings into the patient's body. The metal shavings result in various reactions including swelling, fever, and deterioration of tissue and bone. It is extremely painful, and physicians are finding that replacements are more difficult due to the damage done by the previously implanted defective hip unit.
Defective Hip Unit Victim's Rights
Although DePuy has said that they will cover all reasonable and customary costs of the monitoring and treatment of patients, this should not discourage you or your loved one from obtaining compensation for your injuries. If you have received injuries as a result of Johnson & Johnson's defective products, speaking with an experienced product liability attorney is in your best interest.
Los Angeles Product Liability Lawyers
As a victim of a defective product, you have the opportunity to obtain the most experienced and successful attorneys on a contingency fee basis. If you are looking for a free consultation, contact a BISNAR | CHASE Los Angeles product liability attorney for a free professional evaluation of your case by attorneys who have represented over 6,000 clients since 1978. You will experience award winning representation and outstanding personal service by a friendly law firm in a comfortable environment.
SLS Consulting
Juergen Schaberick said:
When you have a chance, please, read this new article/blog post on the DePuy case, and when you don't mind, also comment on it, and tell as many people as possible about it.
http://www.linkmommy.com/Blog/doctors-and-lawyers-in-the-depuy-case
Thanks in advance.
Juergen Schaberick
Venice, Florida