The Rejuvenate Modular hip implant was recalled on 6 July 2012 by one of the world’s biggest manufacturers of orthopaedic devices and medical equipment, Stryker.
The hip implant system consists of the neck component which is made of chromium and cobalt and the stem which is coated with titanium.
Metallic debris are shed into the patient’s tissues, bone and/or bloodstream when these parts wear against each other.
Swelling, pain and difficulty walking are some common complications.
Non-internal symptoms of cobaltism or cobalt poisoning
- Hypothyroidism
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Heart failure
- Blindness
- Convulsions
- Weakness
- Loss of hearing
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Cognitive decline
Side effects resulting from cobalt and chromium toxicity include:
- Metallosis (build-up of metallic debris)
- Elevated CO levels and inflammatory markers
- Infection
- Tissue inflammation pseudo-tumor formation
- Unexplained rashes
- Milky fluid around joint
- Fibrous tissue masses
- Tissue necrosis (the cell death of affected tissues)
- Hypersensistivity/allergic response
- Corrosion and black rusted metal
- Loosening of the implant
- Muscle damage
- Fractured femurs
- Broken devices
- Dislocation of the ball and socket
- Osteolysis (death of bone cell due to blood supply issues)
Lawsuits
Numerous lawsuits have been filed against Stryker since the recall in 2012. The manufacturer is being accused of negligence in failing to warn the public of the high failure rate. In addition, they are also alleging negligence in the designing of the device and testing the safety of the product.
The first four cases were settled for an undisclosed amount of money during December 2013, in New Jersey.
If you or a loved one is concerned about the Stryker Rejuvenate Modular hip replacement you received, please feel free to fill in the contact form and we will refer your query to a product liability specialist for a free legal opinion.
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