Metal Hip Implants

These artificial hip joints are designed with a metal ball attached at the top of the femur which is in full contact with a metal socket that is implanted in the pelvis. For those suffering arthritis or some other condition or disease that affects the hip joints, these hip replacements can seem like an effective solution to their pain.

Some of these hip replacements were approved for use on humans via the Food and Drug Administration’s 510(k) process, also known as fast-tracking. In this approval process, human testing can be skipped and manufacturers are allowed to market implants without the submission of safety data. Unfortunately, a number of people have experienced complications related to their hip implants.

The Houston attorneys at Perdue & Kidd are skilled at handling cases for clients whose injuries may have a more complex causation than most personal injury cases. Jim Perdue, Jr. and Donald H. Kidd are certified as specialists in personal injury trial law and medical malpractice by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. We know that our clients need real legal help. They may have had to go through multiple surgeries to deal with the failings of their hip replacement. We know the toll that defective medical devices can take, and we are dedicated to helping you hold those who have harmed you accountable for what they have done.

January 13, 2013 FDA Safety Communication and Proposed Order

On January 17, 2013, the FDA released a safety communication stating “metal-on-metal hip implants have unique risks in addition to the general risks of all hip implants.” The FDA reported that the source of the problem is metal particles that have worn off of the device and released, which can damage soft tissue and/or bone surrounding the implant. This can lead to implant loosening, pain, device failure, and even the release of metal ions into the bloodstream potentially causing systemic reactions.

Additionally, the FDA released its proposed order changing the approval process for metal-on-metal hip implants. The FDA now requires manufacturers of these implants to go through a complete premarket approval process, which includes the submission of safety data.

Metal-On-Metal Hip Complications

In the time since the metal-on-metal hip replacement devices hit the market, many people have reported a wide variety of complications, including:

• Joint pain
• Fragments of the hip replacement breaking off and embedding in the surrounding tissue
• The socket becoming loose from the pelvis
• Weakening of the bone
• The artificial hip breaking
• Fluid collection around device
• Tumor-like growths surrounding the artificial joint
• Weakening of the bones surrounding the artificial hip

These devices were brought to market by a variety of medical device manufacturers, including:

• DePuy Orthopaedics
• Johnson & Johnson
• Zimmer
• Stryker
• Biomet
• Wright Medical Technology

Contact The Metal-On-Metal Hip Implant Law Firm Of Perdue & Kidd

When you or a loved one has been injured by a metal-on-metal hip implant, you need to take action to secure the compensation you need and that the responsible parties are held accountable for the harm done to you. The lawyers at Perdue & Kidd are skilled and capable of ensuring that your rights are respected. To schedule a free initial consultation, call 713-520-2500 or toll free at 800-520-1749, or simply contact us online.

All personal injury cases are taken on a contingent fee basis. Attorney fees are collected only if we secure compensation for you.