An MDL, or Multi-District Litigation, for the Stryker LFIT V40 hip replacement has been formed in U.S. District Court of Massachusetts, consolidating cases nationwide into a single court system. In August 2016, Stryker issued a voluntary Class 2 Recall for this particular hip implant. Stryker cited multiple complaints involving taper lock failure. Patients have complained about injuries such as metallosis and dissociation of the implant’s head and stem. Plaintiffs allege that not only did the manufacturers know about these potential problems, but they also failed to warn the surgeons who performed the hip replacement operations.

What is Metallosis?

Metallosis involves the buildup of metal debris in the soft tissues of the body and can cause a number of health issues. With these Stryker hips, the metal ball and socket may cause friction, releasing metal particles and other metal debris into the bloodstream. This can result in rashes, inflammation, bone deterioration, and necrosis, among other injuries. A blood test is conducted to determine if there are elevated chromium or cobalt levels in the blood, which is indicative of metallosis.

Why Was The Hip Replacement Placed on the Market?

The LFIT V40 hip replacement was placed on the market through a 510(k), a clearance that expedites the approval process. Clearing a product such as the LFIT V40 hip replacement through the 510(k) process requires less product testing because it is modeled after a similar device that already has been fully approved by the FDA. Unfortunately, this can sometimes result in critical safety oversights.

Hip replacements are a common surgery, especially in older adults. Unfortunately, some physicians have implanted these metal-on-metal hips without being aware of the issues that could arise later. If you feel your hip replacement has caused metallosis or another type of injury, our hip replacement lawyers may be able to help. Simply fill out the Free Case Evaluation form on this page or contact us at (888) 783-8378 to speak to a knowledgeable attorney.

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