Published by Wright Conserve Hip Lawsuit Overview
The Wright Conserve hip replacement lawsuits involve allegations that these metal-on-metal implants shed cobalt and chromium particles, causing serious complications in patients.
Multiple lawsuits claim Wright Medical manufactured defective hip implants and failed to warn about premature failure risks.
Numerous cases have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, with reports showing significantly higher revision rates compared to other hip implants.
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Latest Wright Conserve Hip Lawsuit Updates
- April 16, 2025: According to Drugwatch, Wright Medical has settled two major rounds of lawsuits totaling $330 million to resolve hundreds of claims over its hip-replacement implants, including the Conserve line. The multidistrict litigation (MDL) was closed by a federal court in June 2018, barring new lawsuits in the MDL. However, some attorneys continue to evaluate individual cases for potential settlement or trial. Wright Medical no longer manufactures hip implants [1].
- June 2018: A federal judge closed the Wright Medical MDL, officially ending the centralized litigation process for new claims in federal court. This followed two major settlements totaling $330 million to resolve most of the lawsuits over the Conserve and related hip implants [2].
- 2015–2016: A 2016 study published in The Open Orthopaedics Journal found a revision rate of 18.4% within 4.5 years for Wright Conserve metal-on-metal hip implants, far exceeding acceptable industry standards. The most common reasons for failure were device loosening and pain. Hospitals in the study stopped using Wright Medical’s Conserve MoM hips due to these risks [3].
- November 2015: A jury awarded $11 million to plaintiff Robyn Christiansen after finding that a Wright Conserve implant caused tissue damage and other complications. The court later reduced the award to $2.1 million [4].
- September 2011: The National Joint Registry for England and Wales released its Eighth Annual Report, which found that metal-on-metal hip implants, including the Wright Conserve line, had higher revision rates than other types of hip replacements. The report contributed to increased scrutiny and regulatory action regarding these devices [5].
Related Article: Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants Failure & Metallosis
FDA Reports and Statistics
The Wright Conserve hip system, including the Total Hip System, received FDA clearance in 2003 through the 510(k) regulatory pathway, which permitted market entry without rigorous safety testing by demonstrating 'substantial equivalence' to existing metal-on-metal hip implants.
FDA adverse event reports, exceeding 200 by 2014, have documented cases of premature failure, metallosis, pseudotumors, and other complications requiring revision surgeries.
The Wright Conserve hip devices have demonstrated significantly higher failure rates, such as 8.36% within five years, compared to alternative designs like metal-on-plastic or ceramic-on-ceramic implants
Wright Conserve Hip Injuries & Side Effects
Wright Conserve hip implants have been linked to numerous complications caused by metal debris released when components rub together, leading to tissue damage and device failure.
- Metal poisoning (metallosis): Release of cobalt and chromium particles into surrounding tissues and bloodstream
- Inflammatory responses: Pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing
- Mechanical complications: Implant loosening, dislocation, and premature failure
- Tissue damage: Soft tissue growths (pseudotumors), necrosis (tissue death), and bone loss
- Systemic effects: Potential organ damage from metal ions circulating throughout the body
Do You Qualify for a Wright Conserve Hip Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Wright Conserve hip lawsuit if:
- You received a Wright Conserve hip implant after 2003
- You experienced serious complications such as metallosis, implant loosening, tissue damage, or premature failure
- Your complications required medical treatment or revision surgery
- You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Wright Conserve implant
Evidence Required for a Wright Conserve Hip Lawsuit
To strengthen your case, you'll need to provide:
- Medical records confirming your Wright Conserve hip implant
- Documentation of complications following the implant
- Records of any revision surgeries or treatments
- Medical opinions connecting your injuries to the device
Damages You Can Recover
Victims of defective Wright Conserve hip implants may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses for treatments, surgeries, and ongoing care
- Lost wages due to time away from work
- Pain and suffering compensation
- Punitive damages against the manufacturer
Wright Conserve Hip Recall Information
No official recall has been issued for the Wright Conserve hip implants, but concerns about metal-on-metal (MoM) hip implants prompted heightened FDA scrutiny and monitoring starting in 2011, including safety reviews and adverse event tracking.
The following Wright Conserve hip replacement models have been associated with complications such as premature failure and metallosis:
- Conserve Total Hip Implant System
- Conserve Plus Total Resurfacing Hip System
- Conserve Femoral Surface Replacement Hip
- Conserve Total A-Class Advanced Metal Hip Implant System
Statute of Limitations for Wright Conserve Hip Lawsuits
The time to file a Wright Conserve hip lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 1-3 years from the date you discovered or should have reasonably discovered your injury.
This "discovery rule" is important as many complications from metal-on-metal hip implants may not become apparent until years after the initial surgery.
Due to these limitations, it's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after experiencing complications to preserve your legal rights.
FAQs
1. What exactly is wrong with the Wright Conserve hip implants?
Wright Conserve hip implants use metal-on-metal components that can rub together, releasing metal particles into surrounding tissues. This can lead to metallosis (metal poisoning), tissue damage, implant loosening, and premature failure requiring revision surgery.
2. How do I know if my hip implant is failing?
Common signs include persistent hip pain, swelling, difficulty walking, popping or grinding sensations, limited mobility, and unexplained hip discomfort. Only a medical professional can properly diagnose implant failure through examination and imaging.
3. What compensation can I seek in a lawsuit?
Victims may seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other related costs due to the failure of the hip implant.
4. Are there any class action lawsuits for the Wright Conserve Hip System?
There have been both individual lawsuits and consolidated cases (MDL) filed against Wright Medical Group. A lawyer can advise you on the best approach based on your specific circumstances.
5. What is the status of current lawsuits?
Many lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL). Some cases have resulted in settlements, while litigation remains ongoing for others.
6. What evidence do I need for a lawsuit?
You'll need medical records, proof of the implant, documentation of injuries and complications, and any related medical expenses. A lawyer can help gather and organize this evidence.
7. How long does a hip implant lawsuit typically take?
The timeline varies significantly depending on case complexity, evidence strength, and whether it settles or goes to trial. Most cases take between 1-3 years to resolve.
8. Is there a cost to have my case evaluated?
Our firm offers free, confidential case evaluations and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
9. Can I file a lawsuit if my implant hasn't been recalled?
Yes. Many successful lawsuits involve medical devices that were never officially recalled. The key factor is demonstrating that the device was defective and caused your injuries.
10. How do I know if I have a Wright Conserve hip implant?
Your surgical records and implant identification card should specify the brand and model of your hip implant. Your orthopedic surgeon or hospital can also provide this information if you don't have these records.
Get A Free Wright Conserve Hip Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action for Wright Conserve hip implant injuries. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury discovery to file a claim, and this window may be closing for many affected patients.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or fees to begin your claim
- Payment only if we win your case
Don't delay seeking the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced Wright Conserve hip lawsuit attorneys today to discuss your legal options and begin your path to recovery.
References:
- https://www.drugwatch.com/hip-replacement/wright-medical/lawsuits/
- https://www.consumernotice.org/legal/hip-replacement-lawsuits/
- https://www.drugwatch.com/hip-replacement/wright-medical/
- https://ladenburglaw.com/blog/court-upholds-2-1-million-verdict-in-wright-hip-replacement-case/
- https://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d5977