There are several reasons why patients require hip replacement surgery. It is typically recommended for those who suffer from extensive fractures or arthritis. There are several indications for surgery such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and traumatic arthritis. Osteoarthritis is when the cartilage that covers the hip bones wears away, which causes bone-on-bone movements. Osteoarthritis results in pain and stiffness and usually occurs around the age of 50. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation to the synovial membrane and damage to articular cartilage. Traumatic arthritis occurs due to serious hip injuries or fractures, which may cause articular damage and osteonecrosis.
Implants are often the “ball and socket” model in which a half-spherical cup (socket) is implanted into the pelvis, which fits next to a head (the ball). The head in attached to a spike that is cemented or drilled into the femur. These implants are usually manufactured form metal or plastic.
Lately, defective hip implants sold by manufacturers have been responsible for many significant injuries, leading to civil product liability lawsuits to recover damages suffered by victims. Recently, for example, the DePuy ASR hip replacement has been recalled. Sulzer Orthopedics Inc. has also recalled thousands of knee and hip replacements, leading to approval of a $1 billion settlement with injured patients.
Although there have been recalls of many hip replacements, not all such implants need to be replaced. Therefore, it is crucial that patients return to their doctors for an evaluation to ensure that their hip replacement is functioning properly.
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury due to a defective hip replacement, contact the law office of Swartz & Swartz, P.C. in Boston, Massachusetts.