As a mom, ensuring the health and safety of your family is always a top priority. While we often think of childproofing our homes and staying on top of our children’s health, there are other potential risks that might not be as apparent, such as defective hip replacements.
According to Drugwatch, a study conducted in 2022 found that approximately 46.7% of participants showed a significant improvement after undergoing a hip replacement procedure. On the other hand, 15.5% experienced negative outcomes, often attributed to a defective hip replacement.
Exactech, a medical device company that primarily creates implants and technology for joint replacements, has faced recalls and complications related to certain hip implant products. In this article, we’ll talk about what moms need to know about defective Exactech hip replacements to protect their families.
The Exactech Hip Replacement Recall
In recent years, Exactech has witnessed recalls of specific hip implant products, including knee and ankle implants, due to packaging errors that could lead to the breakdown of vital parts within the devices. One significant concern is the oxidation of polyethylene insert components, commonly used in Exactech hip replacement liners.
This oxidation can cause the liner to degrade prematurely inside the body, potentially resulting in adverse health effects and the need for corrective revision surgery. It’s essential for moms to be aware of these recalls and understand which Exactech products might be affected.
As per an article on MedTech Dive, Exactech discovered that approximately 80% of the knee and ankle replacement devices manufactured during a specific period were packaged in faulty bags. This indicated that a significant majority of patients who received these implants might have been exposed to the risk of oxidation.
Signs of a Defective Hip Replacement
As a mom, being vigilant about your family’s health means being able to recognize potential signs of a defective hip replacement. If someone in your family has undergone a hip replacement procedure and experiences persistent pain, it might be worth investigating further.
Grinding or clicking sensations in the hip joint could also be indicative of a problem. In some cases, the pain might radiate to other parts of the body, such as the knees, ankles, or shoulders.
Potential Health Effects
Defective hip replacements can lead to several adverse health effects, including synovitis and osteolysis. Synovitis is the inflammation of the synovium, the thin membrane lining around joints, and can cause severe pain and joint damage if left untreated. Osteolysis, on the other hand, is a progressive condition that causes the destruction of bone tissue.
In the case of Exactech hip replacements, osteolysis may occur if the polyethylene insert degrades, leading to further complications and bone loss. Understanding these potential health consequences is crucial for moms to take appropriate action if they suspect a defective Exactech implant in their family members.
Seeking Legal Assistance
If your family has been affected by a defective Exactech hip replacement, seeking legal assistance is essential to protect your rights and pursue compensation by filing an Exactech hip replacement lawsuit.
According to TorHoerman Law, consulting with an experienced attorney who specializes in medical product liability can help you understand your options and navigate the complex legal process. A skilled lawyer will gather evidence, build a strong case, and advocate on your behalf to hold Exactech accountable.
According to an update shared by AboutLawsuits, lawyers handling the combined federal cases related to the Exactech recall have recently presented their suggestions for the discovery process to be carried out in the next year. These proposals aim to streamline the proceedings before specific groups of cases proceed to individual trial dates.
Presently, the federal court system has nearly 500 pending lawsuits concerning Exactech knee and hip replacements. These cases have been centralized under U.S. District Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis in the Eastern District of New York.
The Importance of Medical Check-ups
Regular medical check-ups are crucial, not only for monitoring the health of your family but also to detect any potential issues related to medical devices. This includes hip replacements.
Encourage your family members to communicate openly with their healthcare providers about any concerns they may have. Staying proactive and informed about their medical conditions and potential risks associated with Exactech implants can help catch problems early and prevent further complications.
Making Informed Decisions
When it comes to medical procedures, including hip replacements, making informed decisions is paramount. Moms can play a crucial role in researching and gathering information about different implant options and their associated risks. Encouraging open communication between family members and their healthcare providers can lead to better decision-making and ultimately protect your family’s well-being.
Final Thoughts
Being aware of potential risks associated with medical devices, such as defective hip replacements, is vital for moms to safeguard their family’s health. The recent recalls of Exactech hip implants serve as a reminder to stay informed about product recalls and understand the signs of a faulty implant.
Recognizing potential health effects, seeking legal assistance if needed, and promoting regular medical check-ups can help protect loved ones. Empowered with knowledge and proactive decision-making, moms can play a crucial role in ensuring their family’s well-being and advocating for their health.
