Stryker Hip Replacement Recall Attorneys

On January 22nd, 2008 the Stryker Corporation, makers of hip replacements and other joint replacement components, announced the recall of two hip implant components made under the company's popular Trident line. The Trident PSL and Hemispherical Ace tabular Cups used in hip replacement surgeries were recalled after reports that the methods used in their manufacturing plants were not in conformity with good manufacturing practice and that the hip replacement components could be contaminated with "manufacturing residuals" at levels that exceeded company standards.

The defects in the product have resulted in complications in patients who have had hip replacement surgery which include bone fractures, and possible staph infections. Other problems resulting from the defects include squeaky or noisy hip implants, pain and discomfort, difficulty walking, component breakage and chipping, and uneven component ware. The complications and problems result in some patients requiring revision surgeries and in some cases, secondary hip replacement surgeries.

The January recall is the latest chapter in a story that dates back to as early as 2005. Since that time, Styker hip implant patients have reported an abnormally high and diverse range of problems, including pain, difficulty walking and "squeaky" joints. Those complaints prompted the FDA to inspect both the Mahwah, New Jersey and Cork, Ireland plants where most of the Stryker hip implants sold in the US are made. Those inspections resulted in the FDA issuing Stryker two warning letters.

The first letter, dated March 15, 2007, concerned itself with the sub par conditions in the Cork, Ireland manufacturing plant, including the facilities failure to follow procedures for testing problematic products and documenting risk. Then Stryker received another letter regarding the New Jersey facility. That letter, dated November 28, 2007 said that the deficiencies uncovered during an inspection at the Mahwah, New Jersey facility had contributed directly to the manufacture of faulty hip implants. Problems like the detection of Staphylococcus bacteria and Stryker's repeated failure "to perform corrective and preventive actions in order to prevent the recurrence of nonconforming product or other quality problems" were sighted in the FDA's second letter.

Along with its responsibility to warn consumers of unsafe products, a medical manufacturer also has the obligation, or duty to design and construct safe products. When it fails in that duty, victims may hold the company liable for the injuries their products caused. That can include the cost of past and future medical treatment, the cost of secondary surgeries to remove or repair defective devices, and financial losses such as loss of livelihood. They may also be able to collect compensation for non-financial damages such as pain and suffering or loss of quality of life.

If you or a loved one were seriously injured as a result of a defective Stryker Hip Implant, contact one of our skilled Stryker Defective Hip Replacement lawyers today to learn more about your rights and how we can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

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