Metal on Metal Hip Implants
Metal on metal hip implants were created with the idea that they would be more durable than hip implants containing plastic or ceramic materials. However, studies have shown that these implants may actually have a higher failure rate and may need to be removed and replaced sooner than other types of hip implants.
If you or a family member experienced adverse side effects or health problems after a hip replacement with metal on metal implants, you may be entitled to compensation. Liska, Exnicios & Nungesser can help. We will review your case, answer your questions, and review your options.
Problems with Metal on Metal Hip Implants
Metal on metal hip implants have been manufactured and distributed by several companies, including DePuy, Stryker, Biomet, and Zimmer. Other types of hip replacement implants can last as long as 15-20 years, but studies have found that one in 12 metal on metal hip implants will need to be replaced within five years.
Although they were developed to be more durable than other implant models, metal on metal hip implants often begin to break down much sooner than other types of implants. As metal on metal implants break down, metal debris (usually chromium or cobalt) can be released into the body. This can create a number of health problems, including:
- Clicking, grinding, or popping in the hip
- Difficulty walking and/or standing due to hip pain
- Loosening and dislocation of the implant
- Bone loss and/or tissue death in the area surrounding the implant
- Infection
- Early failure of hip implant
- Degenerative heart disease or cardiomyopathy
- Metallosis or metal poisoning
- Noncancerous tumors in the area surrounding the hip implant
- Cancer
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms after receiving a metal on metal hip replacement, you should contact your physician immediately to learn more about your medical options. You should also consult with a lawyer, as you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other expenses.
Metal on Metal Hip Lawsuits in New Orleans
If you have experienced adverse health problems related to a metal on metal hip replacement, do not sign a release or provide your medical information to the manufacturer of your implants without first consulting with a lawyer. At Liska, Exnicios & Nungesser, we want to make sure that your rights are protected. If your implants need to be removed, you may want to have them preserved to provide evidence for your case. Our experienced lawyers can guide you through the process to make sure that you have what you need to proceed.
If you experienced any of the symptoms above, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses related to complications from the hip implant. If you lost a loved one due to complications from metal on metal hip implants, including metal poisoning, cancer, or cardiomyopathy, you may also be entitled to a settlement. Many metal on metal hip implant cases have settled, and payments have amounted to thousands and even millions of dollars.
If you have any questions or are ready to proceed with a metal on metal hip replacement lawsuit, please call our offices at (504) 410-9611.