The DePuy Orthopedics ASR XL Acetabular System has been used as a reliable implant for those in need of hip replacement surgery since it hit the U.S. market in 2003. However, since then studies have proven the implant to have a higher than normal failure rate. Most hip implants require replacement after roughly 15 years, though about 12 percent of those who received the DePuy implant required replacement after only about 5 years of use. Due to these unfortunate failures, DePuy issued a recall and offered to pay the cost of revision surgeries for those who received failing implants, though many patients have since issued complaints and filed lawsuits, claiming the company failed to honor their promise.
All Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) systems made by DePuy were recalled from the market in August of 2010. Among these ASR systems were the XL Acetabular System and the Hip Resurfacing System, both of which were implanted in approximately 93,000 people across the world. However, the XL Acetabular System was the only one marketed in the United States, resulting in the implantation of more than 30,000 total DePuy hip devices in U.S. patients between 2003 and 2010.
Hip implants, in general, have been known to cause dangerous side effects. The most prominent issue is caused by the rubbing of the metal joint, which leads to the release of potentially toxic metal fragments into the bloodstream. The DePuy implants are no exception, and 2 years before the company recalled their implants numerous patients complained of serious complications. Some complications include dislocation of the hip joint, inflammation of the joint, infections, bone fractures, and blood clots. These complications are often painful and may require revision surgeries to correct the issue, which can be very costly and time-consuming.
Previous lawsuits have accused DePuy of knowing about the defects of their medical devices prior to the recall. According to the New York Times, one study by DePuy showed a 40% failure rate in their implant devices before the company discontinued the devices and issued the recall. The British Orthopedic Association also conducted a study, where they found a failure rate of 21% in patients who have had the implant for 4 years, and 49% after 6 years.
If you received a DePuy hip implant, you may be eligible to receive compensation for revision surgeries and other expenses. Contact Michael A. Fakhoury, ESQ., PC to schedule a free consultation.