Published by Stryker LFIT MCL Lawsuit Overview
The Stryker LFIT V40 hip replacement lawsuits involve patients who have suffered complications from defective femoral head components used in hip implant surgeries.
The primary allegations focus on taper lock failures in the LFIT V40 femoral heads that can lead to serious complications requiring revision surgery.
As of November 2023, there were 269 pending cases in MDL number 2768 in Massachusetts addressing LFIT V40 hip implant defects, and 74 pending cases out of an original 3,634 cases in MDL number 2441 in Minnesota addressing Rejuvenate and ABG II hip implant defects.
These lawsuits claim that design defects in the Stryker models caused a range of serious injuries requiring additional surgeries and resulting in ongoing pain and disability.
What is the LFIT V40 Femoral Head?
The LFIT V40 femoral head is a component of Stryker hip replacement devices that are used to replace a patient's diseased hip joint.
In most cases, the LFIT V40 femoral head is implanted together with Trident Acetabular Cups and the following Stryker femoral stems:
- Rejuvenate
- ABG II
- Accolade
- Secur-Fit
- Restoration
Patients who received a Stryker hip implant between 2006 and 2016 are likely to have been implanted with the LFIT V40 femoral head.
The LFIT V40 femoral head came in multiple sizes to allow a better fit for the patient.
The device was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001, and has been implanted in tens of thousands of patients since then.
Latest Stryker LFIT MCL Lawsuit Updates
- November 2023 – As of now, two MDLs are pending against Howmedica Osteonics Corp. over the Stryker hip replacements issue. MDL 2768 in Massachusetts, led by Judge Indira Talwani, involves 269 cases related to LFIT V40 defects. MDL 2441 in Minnesota, overseen by Judge Donovan W. Frank, has 74 remaining cases out of the original 3,634 involving Rejuvenate and ABG II implants [1].
- June 5, 2017 – The Supreme Court published a notice (PDF) granting an application to designate all state lawsuits filed over the Stryker LFIT V40 femoral head as multicounty litigation (MCL) [2].
- April 2017 – All federal Stryker LFIT V40 femoral head lawsuits were centralized in multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2768) in the U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts, before Judge Indira Talwani. The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) initially transferred 6 complaints to the jurisdiction [3].
- September 2016 – Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a hazard alert regarding Stryker LFIT Anatomic CoCr V40 femoral heads after the devices were associated with multiple reports of taper lock failure [4].
FDA Reports and Statistics
The FDA and other regulatory bodies have documented numerous issues with the Stryker LFIT V40 femoral head components:
- The LFIT V40 femoral head was originally approved by the FDA in 2001.
- Tens of thousands of patients received implants with the LFIT V40 femoral head between 2006 and 2016.
- Australia's TGA issued a hazard alert in September 2016 after receiving numerous reports of taper lock failures.
- The FDA has received hundreds of adverse event reports related to the Stryker LFIT V40 component.
- A significant percentage of patients with these devices have required revision surgery due to device failure.
- The most commonly reported complications include metallosis (metal poisoning), device dislocation, and severe pain.
Stryker LFIT V40 Hip Replacement Injuries & Side Effects
Patients who received Stryker LFIT V40 femoral heads as part of their hip replacement systems have reported numerous serious complications that can significantly impact quality of life and may require additional surgeries.
- Taper Lock Failure: Disconnection between the femoral head and stem components resulting in instability, pain, and loss of mobility.
- Metallosis: Metal poisoning caused by metal debris released as components wear against each other, leading to tissue and bone damage.
- Adverse Local Tissue Reaction (ALTR): Inflammatory response to metal particles that can cause tissue death, bone loss, and pseudotumors.
- Osteolysis: Degradation and resorption of bone tissue around the implant, leading to loosening and potential fractures.
Do You Qualify for a Stryker LFIT V40 Hip Replacement Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Stryker LFIT V40 hip replacement lawsuit if:
- You received a hip replacement that included a Stryker LFIT V40 femoral head between 2006 and 2016.
- You experienced complications such as pain, inflammation, loss of mobility, dislocation, or joint instability.
- You required revision surgery to repair or replace your hip implant.
- You were diagnosed with metallosis, adverse local tissue reaction, or other complications related to your hip implant.
- You have medical documentation confirming you received the Stryker LFIT V40 component and experienced related complications.
Evidence Required for a Stryker LFIT V40 Hip Replacement Lawsuit
To successfully pursue a Stryker LFIT V40 hip replacement lawsuit, you'll need to gather:
- Medical records confirming you received a hip implant with the Stryker LFIT V40 femoral head.
- Surgical records from your original hip replacement procedure and any revision surgeries.
- Documentation of complications, including imaging studies, blood tests, and physician notes.
- Evidence of metallosis or other adverse reactions related to the hip implant.
- Records of all medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial impacts related to your hip implant complications.
Damages You Can Recover
Victims of Stryker LFIT V40 hip replacement complications may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses for revision surgeries, hospitalization, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity due to recovery time and disability.
- Pain and suffering associated with device failure and additional surgeries.
- Permanent disability or impairment resulting from hip implant complications.
- Loss of quality of life and enjoyment of activities.
Stryker LFIT V40 Recall Information
Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in September 2016 issued a hazard alert regarding Stryker LFIT Anatomic CoCr V40 femoral heads after the devices were associated with multiple reports of failure of taper lock failure.
TGA noted that patients should be concerned about the following complications associated with Stryker LFIT V40 femoral heads:
- Loss of mobility
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Adverse local tissue reaction (ALTR)
- Dislocation
- Joint instability
- Broken bones around the hip implant
- Leg length discrepancy
- The need for revision surgery
Statute of Limitations for Stryker LFIT V40 Hip Replacement Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for filing a Stryker LFIT V40 hip replacement lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of injury or when you reasonably discovered the connection between your complications and the defective hip implant.
Several factors can affect the timeframe for filing a lawsuit:
- The date you received your hip implant
- When you first experienced complications
- When you discovered your complications were related to a defective implant
- Whether your state recognizes the "discovery rule," which may extend the filing deadline
- Whether you're filing in state or federal court
Because these timeframes can vary significantly, it's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss your filing deadline.
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FAQs
1. Who can file a lawsuit related to Stryker LFIT MCL components?
Individuals who have experienced complications or required revision surgery due to defective Stryker LFIT MCL components can file a lawsuit. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer specializing in medical device litigation can help determine eligibility and guide the legal process.
2. What types of complications are associated with Stryker LFIT MCL components?
Complications associated with Stryker LFIT MCL components include metallosis (metal poisoning), device dislocation, chronic pain, inflammation, tissue damage, and the need for revision surgery. These complications can lead to long-term health issues and require extensive medical treatment.
3. What compensation can be sought in a Stryker LFIT MCL lawsuit?
Compensation in a Stryker LFIT MCL lawsuit can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and other related expenses. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to penalize the manufacturer for negligence.
4. How do I know if my hip implant contains a Stryker LFIT V40 femoral head?
Your surgical records and implant documentation should indicate the specific components used in your hip replacement. You can request these records from your surgeon or hospital. An experienced attorney can also help determine if your implant included the recalled Stryker LFIT V40 femoral head.
5. How long does a Stryker hip replacement lawsuit typically take to resolve?
The timeline for resolving a Stryker hip replacement lawsuit varies considerably. Cases that are part of multidistrict litigation (MDL) may take 2-5 years to reach resolution, with some individual cases settling sooner. Factors affecting timing include the complexity of your case, evidence strength, and whether your case goes to trial or settles.
See all related medical device lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get a Free Stryker LFIT MCL Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action for complications related to Stryker LFIT V40 hip implants.
Most states have a statute of limitations of only 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery, and failing to file within this timeframe could permanently forfeit your right to compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential case evaluations
- No upfront costs or attorney fees
- Payment only if we win your case
- Experienced legal representation from attorneys specialized in medical device litigation
Don't wait until it's too late to pursue the compensation you deserve for injuries caused by defective medical devices.
References
- https://www.drugwatch.com/hip-replacement/stryker/lawsuits/
- https://www.pmkm.com/stryker-lfit-v40-cases-consolidated-in-new-jersey/
- https://www.mad.uscourts.gov/caseinfo/pdf/mdl/2768/Order%20Aiding%20Private%20Settlement.pdf
- https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/australia-concerned-about-stryker-made-57468/