At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective Stryker hip implants. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Table Of Contents
- Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- Stryker Hip Implant Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit?
- Stryker Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuits
- FAQs
- 1. What complications are associated with Stryker hip implants?
- 2. What settlement amounts have been awarded in Stryker hip lawsuits?
- 3. What tests can detect Stryker hip implant complications?
- 4. How soon after implantation can problems occur?
- 5. If my hip implant was recalled, do I need revision surgery?
- 6. Who is eligible to file a Stryker hip implant lawsuit?
- 7. How long does the lawsuit process take?
- 8. What should I do if I have a recalled Stryker hip implant but no symptoms?
- 9. Are there any upfront costs to file a lawsuit?
- 10. What if my revision surgery happened years ago?
- Get A Free Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
- Reference:
Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit Overview
Stryker Corp. faces numerous lawsuits over their defective hip implant devices, particularly the Rejuvenate and ABG II modular-neck hip systems.
Primary allegations involve metal corrosion causing severe tissue damage, pain, and inflammation.
The June 2012 recall has affected countless patients nationwide, triggering significant litigation.
The FDA issued a warning letter addressing manufacturing deficiencies that directly contributed to these faulty devices.
Latest Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit Updates
- May 16, 2017 – At least 95% of eligible patients have registered for a settlement program to resolve product liability lawsuits filed over injuries from Stryker Rejuvenate and ABG II Modular-Neck hip stems. The company has indicated it will soon begin paying eligible parties.
- September 27, 2016 – Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a hazard alert regarding Stryker LFIT Anatomic CoCr V40 femoral heads after numerous reports of taper lock failure. Complications include loss of mobility, pain, inflammation, adverse tissue reactions, dislocation, broken bones around the implant, and need for revision surgery.
- July 2012 – Stryker announced that its July 2012 hip implant recall of Rejuvenate and ABG II Modular-Neck hip stems would cost between $190 and $390 million for patient testing and treatment, revision surgeries, replacement hip lawsuits, and insurance payments, as an initial estimate in 2012.
Recommended Article: MDL Court Schedules First Conference for Stryker LFIT V40 Litigation
FDA Reports and Statistics
Based on FDA reports and investigations, Stryker hip implants have shown significant safety concerns:
- The FDA issued a warning letter to Stryker in November 2007, citing serious manufacturing deficiencies at their Mahwah, New Jersey factory [1]
- Clinical review examined 107 patients (130 hips) who were 50 years or younger, with follow-up lasting at least 10 years
- 12 hips (9.2%) required revision surgery with 9 cases involving aseptic loosening of the acetabular component
- Radiographic review showed 14 (12.8%) of the remaining acetabular prosthesis were loose, though no femoral components showed signs of loosening
- Overall survivorship rate was 92.6% at an average of 12.5 years
Stryker Hip Implant Injuries & Side Effects
Stryker hip replacement complications, particularly with metal-on-metal implants like the Rejuvenate and ABG II modular neck systems, can lead to severe side effects:
- Metal Poisoning (Metallosis): Elevated cobalt/chromium levels causing systemic toxicity
- Tissue Damage: Death of surrounding muscle and soft tissue that cannot be surgically repaired
- Chronic Pain: Persistent hip, leg, groin, or lower back pain indicating implant instability
- Mobility Impairments: Difficulty walking, instability, or reduced range of motion
- Systemic Complications: Cardiomyopathy, neurological issues, and thyroid disorders from prolonged metal exposure
Do You Qualify for a Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Stryker hip implant lawsuit if:
- You received a Stryker Rejuvenate, ABG II modular-neck hip device, or LFIT V40 femoral head
- You experienced serious side effects including pain, inflammation, metallosis, tissue damage, or implant failure
- You required revision surgery to remove or replace the defective implant
- You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Stryker device
Evidence Required for a Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit
To strengthen your case, you’ll need:
- Medical records documenting the original hip replacement surgery
- Documentation of complications and treatment following implantation
- Records of revision surgery if performed
- Blood test results showing elevated metal ion levels (if applicable)
- Imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) showing implant issues or tissue damage
Damages You Can Recover
By filing a Stryker hip implant lawsuit, you may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses for revision surgeries and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering compensation
- Costs for in-home care or mobility assistance
- Punitive damages against Stryker (in some cases)
Stryker Recall Information
Stryker initiated a voluntary recall of the following devices:
- Rejuvenate modular-neck hip stems (June 2012)
- ABG II modular-neck hip stems (June 2012)
- LFIT Anatomic CoCr V40 femoral heads (2016)
The recall was issued due to risks of fretting and corrosion at the modular-neck junction, which can release metal debris into surrounding tissues.
Statute of Limitations for Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuits
Time limits for filing a Stryker hip implant lawsuit vary by state:
- California: 2 years from date injury was discovered
- Georgia: 2 years from date of injury or discovery
- New Jersey: Generally 2 years, but may vary
Special circumstances may extend these deadlines:
- Discovery Rule: The clock starts when you discover the injury, not when the implant was first placed
- Revision Surgery: While not automatically resetting the statute of limitations, it can serve as evidence of when you became aware of the implant’s failure
- Incapacitation or Minor Status: May allow additional time before deadline enforcement
FAQs
1. What complications are associated with Stryker hip implants?
Stryker hip implants can cause metal poisoning (metallosis), tissue damage, chronic pain, squeaky joints, component breakage, and systemic health issues including cardiomyopathy and neurological problems.
2. What settlement amounts have been awarded in Stryker hip lawsuits?
Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity. A Texas jury awarded $502 million in one case, and over $450 million has been recovered by some law firms specializing in defective medical device cases against Stryker.
3. What tests can detect Stryker hip implant complications?
Doctors use blood tests to measure cobalt/chromium levels, MRIs to detect soft tissue inflammation, X-rays to assess bone structure, and joint fluid analysis to check for infections or metal particles.
4. How soon after implantation can problems occur?
Problems can develop within months of surgery or may take several years to manifest. Early warning signs include pain, swelling, difficulty walking, or unusual sounds from the joint.
5. If my hip implant was recalled, do I need revision surgery?
Not necessarily. Your doctor should evaluate your individual situation, possibly using blood tests and imaging, to determine if revision is needed based on your symptoms and implant condition.
6. Who is eligible to file a Stryker hip implant lawsuit?
Anyone who received a recalled Stryker hip implant (Rejuvenate, ABG II, or LFIT V40) and suffered complications may be eligible to file. Eligibility depends on the specific device, timing of surgery, and nature of complications.
7. How long does the lawsuit process take?
The timeline varies depending on case complexity. Initial payments typically begin several months after settlement agreements are reached, while ongoing litigation can take longer.
8. What should I do if I have a recalled Stryker hip implant but no symptoms?
Even without symptoms, consult your doctor for evaluation. Blood tests for metal ion levels and imaging studies may detect problems before symptoms develop.
9. Are there any upfront costs to file a lawsuit?
No. Schmidt & Clark, LLP works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you receive compensation.
10. What if my revision surgery happened years ago?
You may still qualify, depending on your state’s statute of limitations. Consult an attorney immediately to determine if you can still file a claim.
Related Articles:
- Stryker ShapeMatch Lawsuit
- Alaska Stryker LFIT V40 Hip Implant Lawsuit
- Stryker LFIT V40 Lawsuits may be Consolidated into MDL
See all related medical device lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get A Free Stryker Hip Implant Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action against Stryker for defective hip implants. Most states only allow 2 years from the date of injury or discovery to file a claim.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP firm offers:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or legal fees
- Payment only if we win your case
- Nationwide representative with experience in medical device litigation
Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for your Stryker hip implant injuries.
Reference:
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfRes/res.cfm?ID=149782