Pain, swelling, popping noise, lumps often indicate compensable injury
For the third time in five years, Stryker Corporation is recalling an artificial hip joint replacement product amid allegations of a defective design. Known as the LFIT Anatomic Cobalt-Chromium V40 Femoral Head, the device is associated with reports of severe injuries, including metal poisoning. In some cases patients experience so much pain they must have a second surgery.
If you, a member of your family or a friend have recently received a letter from your surgeon indicating you are fitted with the Stryker LFIT V40 device, or if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following symptoms following hip replacement surgery, contact Shaw Cowart today to determine whether you are eligible for compensation:
- Popping noises or squeaking during movement
- Dislocation, or feeling as though the joint has “slipped”
- Lumps near the affected hip
- Swelling in groin area or near hip
- Pain during walking or movement
- Inflammation
Stryker LFIT V40 Recall Issued
Announced at the end of August 2016, the recall affects all implants manufactured prior to 2012. The LFIT V40 was designed to replace the femur, where a medical professional would implant the top ball-like protrusion into the hip socket. According to Stryker, the defect occurred in the taper lock — the part that connects the stem of the femur to the product.
Once the LFIT V40 separates from the femoral stem, small bits of toxic metals are released into the bloodstream and surrounding tissue, putting the patient at risk of metallosis, or metal poisoning. Patients may experience inflammation and cell death, or necrosis, of the nearby muscle tissue and bones. In some severe cases, patients have reported complete LFIT V40 failure as the component breaks, causing a fracture in the patient’s own femur as well.
Prior to the Stryker LFIT V40 recall, two of the company’s previous models – the ABG II and the Rejuvenate – were also prone to corrosion, which caused small bits of metal to become embedded in the surrounding tissues. Following the recall of those models in 2012, Stryker ceased production on the products. To date, Stryker has paid more than $1 billion to settle claims associated with the ABG II and Rejuvenate modular-neck hip stems.
Contact Our Stryker Hip Device Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love was fitted with the Stryker LFIT V40 device and you are suffering from pain, inflammation or metallosis, contact us today. We review cases at no out-of-pocket cost to our clients to determine if there is a claim. Those injured by defective hip implants are entitled to seek compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering and medical bills. Call toll free 512-499-8900.