Stryker Hip Settlement Alert for Des Moines, Iowa Residents - there has been a 1.4 billion dollar settlement in the Stryker Hip Implant MDL. Please take the time to get fully informed about the Stryker Master Settlement Agreement.
What Happens When Stryker Rejuvenate Hip Metal Debris is Released in the Body? If you have been implanted with a Stryker Rejuvenate metal hip implant, you are probably aware of the controversy surrounding these implants. When those with a metal hip device engage in activity, the metal components of the hip device rub against one another and can release Stryker Rejuvenate hip metal debris. These tiny metal particles of cobalt and chromium may burrow into the hip tissues or can make their way to the bloodstream. When the metal ions enter the bloodstream, metal poisoning can occur, and when the ions remain in the hip tissues, metallosis can occur. Other complications of Stryker Rejuvenate hip metal debris include loosening of the hip device, joint dislocation and, in some cases popping and squeaking of the device.
The Many Stryker ABGII Hip Dangers: Other than metallosis and metal poisoning, there are a number of other potential Stryker ABGII hip dangers. These Stryker Rejuvenate hip dangers can include ALVAL, the development of pseudo-tumors and synovitis. Pseudo-tumors are believed to develop in over a quarter of all patients with a metal hip implant. Synovitis is similar in nature to metallosis, but is primarily inflammation of the joint lining which can occur long before the patient notices symptoms. The joint may feel swollen and warm to the touch due to increased blood flow. Because an MRI can identify this particular type of inflammation, it can be beneficial for those with a metal hip implant to have regular MRI’s. The Stryker ABGII hip dangers are real, and are serious. If you have experienced any of these Stryker Rejuvenate hip dangers, it could be helpful to speak to a De Moines, Iowa hip metallosis attorney.
Were You Affected by the Stryker Rejuvenate/ABGII Hip Recall? The Stryker Rejuvenate and ABGII gained FDA approval in 2008 and 2009, but were not widely marketed until early 2010. Soon after their release, adverse event reports began coming in to the FDA regarding health issues associated with the metal hips. By early 2012, over 300 adverse event reports had been received by the FDA, yet the Stryker Rejuvenate hip recall was not issued until July, 2012. At the time of the Stryker ABGII hip recall, Stryker noted the implant devices were more likely to fail than other hip implants and were prone to corrosion and fretting which could, in turn, lead to the excess generation of metal ion debris. Another separate hip implant, the DePuy ASR hip implant, was recalled two years prior to the Stryker recall, in August, 2010. While the primary area of metal ion debris in the Rejuvenate and ABGII is at the neck/stem junction, the ASR shed the majority of the cobalt and chromium ions between the metal ball and cup.
The Potential Symptoms of DePuy Pinnacle Hip Metallosis: DePuy Pinnacle hip metallosis is defined as aseptic fibrosis or local necrosis, and is caused by corrosion of a metal hip device. When tiny metal ions are released into the body, the body attempts to eradicate the ions by sending macrophages (special white blood cells) to fight the foreign bodies. The body is unable to dispel the ions, and the longer the metals remain in the body, the more damage will accumulate. The surrounding hip bone and tissues can deteriorate or suffer total death. Other symptoms of DePuy Pinnacle hip metallosis include chronic pain in the groin, hip or thigh region, inflammation, loosening of the implant device, and the necessity of undergoing DePuy Pinnacle hip revision surgery.
Stryker Rejuvenate Hip Chromium and Cobalt Poisoning: When cobalt and chromium ions reach the bloodstream, they are sent to the liver and kidneys where the body will attempt to excrete the toxic metals. An oxidative reaction can occur when the chromium particles reach these two organs, impairing their ability to purify the blood. While cobalt poisoning is most often talked about, chromium poisoning can be equally dangerous. Symptoms of Stryker Rejuvenate hip chromium and cobalt poisoning include:
- DNA disruption
- Kidney function impairment
- Reproductive disorders
- Cardiovascular disorders
- Neurological disorders
- The formation of pseudo-tumors
- Short-term nerve impairment
- Chronic headaches
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Loss of vision and hearing
- Vertigo
- Seizures
- Respiratory illnesses
- Decline of cognitive functions
- Depression, anxiety, irritability
- Muscle atrophy
- Seizures and tremors
Dangers Associated With DePuy ASR Hip Revision Surgery: If your physician determines you must undergo DePuy ASR hip revision surgery, there are certain things you should be aware of. The surgery itself is considered riskier than the original implant surgery, and is also more expensive and requires a longer recuperation. If you are undergoing DePuy ASR hip revision surgery, DePuy Pinnacle hip revision surgery, Stryker Rejuvenate hip revision surgery or Stryker ABGII hip revision surgery, you could be on the operating table for as long as four to five hours. This could expose you to excessive blood loss, infection and nerve damage. If you are undergoing Stryker Rejuvenate hip revision surgery, the stem of your implant is particularly long and was implanted deeply within the femur. The surgeon will have to use a special tool designed to remove the Rejuvenate stem. Other metal hip devices with safety issues include the Biomet, the Smith & Nephew, the Zimmer Durom and the Wright models.
Understanding the Des Moines, Iowa Stryker ABGII Hip Statute of Limitations: It is important that you understand the Des Moines, Iowa Stryker ABGII hip statute of limitations so you do not miss the sometimes narrow window of opportunity for filing suit against the manufacturer of the implant which has caused you significant injury. The statutes of limitations vary from state to state, with most states operating under a two-year statute. Iowa is no exception; the statutes begin within two years from the time the injury is discovered. Because the Des Moines, Iowa Stryker Rejuvenate hip statute of limitations can be much more complex that it may appear, it is important that you speak to a knowledgeable Des Moines, Iowa hip metallosis lawyer. Your Des Moines, Iowa metal on metal hip lawyer will work hard to ensure your lawsuit is filed in a timely manner and that your rights are protected.