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In recent years, the issues and problems surrounding hip replacements have been highlighted by various media outlets in Florida and all throughout the country. Unfortunately, more and more patients have experienced problems after their hip replacement surgeries--so much so that many manufacturers have issued recalls for some of their hip components. Fort Myers personal injury attorney Randall Spivey notes that individuals who have experienced problems with their hip implants may be entitled to compensation. There have been many lawsuits already brought by suffering patients against several companies, to include DePuy and Stryker. But it is important for hip replacement patients to understand the problems associated with some replacement hips so that they can decide whether to seek legal counsel with respect to the issues that they may be experiencing as a result of their surgery.

The DePuy ASR Hip Recall

Back in August of 2010, thousands of defective hip implants were recalled after gathered data showed that the DePuy ASR hip had an unreasonably high rate of hip failure which ultimately required hip replacement patients to endure a second surgery in order to fix the original hip replacement. The metal-on-metal hip component is subject to a number of complications, to include loosening, unexplained hip pain and hip failure.

It has been noted that people with smaller physiques, as well as individuals who have weak and/or brittle bones and women, may be more prone to a failing DePuy ASR hip implant. For instance, some patients who have had problems with their DePuy implants have experienced a condition called Metallosis, which, according to Fort Myers personal injury attorney Randall Spivey, is "a poisoning of the tissue and blood that surrounds the implant" that can occur over a period of days, months and even years.

The Stryker Hip Recall

Stryker recalled its ABG II and Rejuvenate Modular hip systems back in July of 2012, after it was learned that those systems might pose an increased risk of "fretting, corrosion and wear." Those who have had hip replacements using those particular systems have noted problems with swelling and/or pain at the joint site, which has frequently led to the need for the patient to undergo another surgery in order to either fix or remove the artificial hip.

Although the Stryker systems boasted superior design qualities that let surgeons customize the implant to the patient's anatomy, tiny metal particles or shavings may be released into the body as the individual continues with his or her daily activities, which can result in Metallosis.

Are You Entitled to Compensation?

The negligence of the above-mentioned manufacturers and several others has left thousands of hip replacement patients with significant physical, mental and emotional issues. Accordingly, those who have been harmed by their hip implants may be entitled to receive compensation for their injuries so that they can begin to move on with their lives.

Such compensation can cover things like medical bills stemming from doctor's visits, testing, medication and hospitalization. Additionally, patients might receive payment for their pain and suffering, as well as lost wages.

If you or a loved one has received a hip implant and you have questions or concerns about your legal options, contact a Fort Myers personal injury attorney at the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. as soon as possible.