subject: Problems With DePuy Pinnacle Could Lead To Post-Surgery Complications [print this page] Problems With DePuy Pinnacle Could Lead To Post-Surgery Complications
The DePuy ASR recall that occurred this past fall has resonated through the medical device community. The public has lost some of its trust in DePuy, one of the world's leading medical device manufacturers. At the time of the recall, the company found that the ASR was failing in approximately 12-13% of patients. This means that about one out of every eight people who underwent hip replacement surgery using the DePuy ASR had to undergo more surgery after just a few years. It is an unacceptable finding for which DePuy will face a mountain of litigation.
Another metal-on-metal hip replacement system that is similar to the ASR is the DePuy Pinnacle. Although there has not been a DePuy Pinnacle recall as of yet, DePuy sought approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for marketing and sale of its ASR hip replacement system through the controversial 510(k) approval process based on its substantial similarity to the already-approved Pinnacle. The two products are similar in that they are metal-on-metal devices that utilize a metal ball that fits into a metal cup to synthesize a natural hip joint. This metal-on-metal dynamic is designed to be more durable and last longer between revision surgeries than other hip replacement systems.
The story of the DePuy ASR recall is illustrative of the need for patients to know about the problems they can have with their medical devices. Too often, someone who has received a hip replacement system will assume that the work is done once he finishes his rehab and resumes as much as is possible of his previous lifestyle. However, it is important to know the ins and outs of the device that was used in the surgery and stay abreast of any news regarding the device.
Loosening is not the only potential problem that patients may face after undergoing hip replacement surgery. Though uncommon, people run the risk of developing a post-surgery bacterial infection, an especially high risk for seniors and obese patients. In the first few weeks after surgery, patients may experience blood clots that travel to the lungs and can cause chest pain or severe health problems. These are just two of the risks that patients must monitor after undergoing hip replacement surgery.
If you have suffered any issue with your DePuy Pinnacle hip replacement system, including loosening or high levels of metal in the blood, you may have a claim against DePuy. The attorneys at the Rottenstein Law Group are equipped with the experience and the know-how to help you navigate your DePuy Pinnacle claim.
