Types of Defective Hip Complications
Hip replacement devices–in particular, metal-on-metal (MOM) hip implants–carry a number of risks. Millions of hip implant devices have been recalled in recent years after it was discovered that the devices were defective as manufactured and designed. Defective hip implants carry a significantly higher risk of complications, causing illness and injury that can be painful, debilitating, and even fatal. Read on to learn about the types of complications known to be associated with defective hip implants. If you or a loved one has been hurt by a MOM hip implant sold by DePuy or other medical device manufacturers, call an experienced medical hip implant defect attorney for advice and representation.
Long-Term Wear: Metal Poisoning and Metallosis
One of the greatest risks associated with hip implant devices is specifically tied to metal-on-metal hip replacement devices. MOM implants are built with a metal ball and metal socket. As these parts rub together with use, metal particles are scraped off and released into the surrounding tissue and blood. Over time, the cobalt, titanium, and chromium ions can build up in the bloodstream and body tissue.
An excess of metal ions can lead to several complications, including:
- Metallosis
- Blood poisoning
- Metal poisoning
- Death of tissue and bone surrounding the implant
- Pain, swelling, skin irritation, and other acute symptoms around the implant area
- Mobility limitations and painful movement
- Osteolysis
- Development of pseudotumors
- Numbness
- Limitations on blood flow and associated complications
- Neurological issues including mood changes and impaired cognitive functioning
- Vision loss
- Organ damage
- Death
Displacement and Dislocation
Metal hip implants are much more prone to failure than their ceramic counterparts. Failure may occur when the various component portions of the prosthesis become loose and dislodge. Parts of the device may dislocate (e.g., when the ball slips out of the socket), requiring surgery to remove, repair, or replace the device. Depending upon the extent of the damage, a single part may need replacement, or the entire device may be faulty and require removal.
Hip implant failure can lead to severe pain, limitations on mobility, infection, and other complications. Component failure can occur as a result of wear and tear over time, the risk of which is exacerbated when the device is made with all metal parts.
Periprosthetic Fractures
Periprosthetic fractures refer to bone breaks around the implant that can cause the implant to fail. These fractures can occur as a result of a fall or other sudden impact, such as a car accident or other blow to the hip. Any condition that weakens the bones can increase the risk of these fractures.
Call Morris Law Firm for Help With a Defective Hip Implant Claim in California or Nationwide
If you have been injured in Southern California or anywhere in the country by a metal-on-metal hip replacement or another defective medical device, call a dedicated medical product defect attorney today at the Morris Law Firm. We’ll help you fight for the compensation you deserve if you have been seriously injured by a recalled medical device or other defective product.
