• 10
  • August
    2011

Imagine having to go through the pain and rehabilitation associated with hip replacement surgery only to have the device fail within five years. That's what thousands of recipients of Johnson and Johnson's Depuy ASR hip implant are facing. The manufacturer's own studies have shown that up to 13 percent of the devices will fail within the first five years after surgery.

About the Depuy Recall

Faced with this information, Johnson and Johnson has recalled the Depuy ASR hip implant device. An estimated 90,000 of these devices are in circulation. Recalling a hip implant device is not as easy as recalling an automobile part or a stroller. Most of these devices have been used on patients, who now face revision surgery or a lifetime of possible side effects. Johnson and Johnson's estimates could be minimizing the scope of the problem. An independent study found that up to half of these implants show some loosening within the first six years. This loosening is not only painful, but can result in metal poisoning and soft tissue inflammation, among other health issues.

Depuy Hip Implants and Litigation

As of July 2011, nearly 1000 lawsuits have been filed in the United States, stemming from defective Depuy ASR hip implants. If these suits are successful, Johnson and Johnson could face a liability of up to one billion dollars, estimates one Wells Fargo analyst quoted in the Wall Street Journal. Perhaps to anticipate this, the manufacturer has augmented its liability fund to total $570 million.

If you or someone you care about has been injured due to a faulty hip replacement joint, you owe it to yourself or to them to contact an attorney that specializes in products liability matters. Don't let Johnson and Johnson's lawyers and insurance company tell you what's fair compensation for your injuries. Speak to an attorney to learn more about your legal options and help you protect your rights.

Source: Hip Joints Set Off New Rush to Court