Hip replacements are relatively common and there are different manufacturers for replacement hips. One popular option is the Stryker hip, and patients were told that it was supposed to last for approximately 15 years. However, what actually happened was the metal-on-metal implants only lasted a few years before they started breaking down. In terms of a personal injury settlement, Hudson Valley residents who had this type of hip replacement were consulting attorneys for help. Knowing more about the potential legal recourse and hip replacements in general is important if you are experiencing a problem.

What Caused the Premature Breakdown?

It is believed that the premature breakdown was associated with the neck stems part of the implant. There were other recalls of metal-on-metal implants that were done for a similar issue. The implant might have failed prematurely for a number of reasons, such as faulty parts and metal poisoning. The metal poisoning caused a number of problems that affected the patient’s nervous system, heart and thyroid. The degrading of the implant caused patients to experience swelling, pain and inflammation in the soft tissues surrounding the implant.

What Effects Did Patients Experience?

A number of problems presented in patients who received a faulty hip replacement implant. These might have included:

  • High levels of cobalt and chromium in the blood
  • Popping, clicking or grinding in the implant area
  • The implant loosening or dislocating
  • Fractured hipbone
  • Metallosis which is a condition related to metal flakes getting into the bloodstream
  • Osteolysis which is a condition characterized by pain associated with thinning bones
  • Severe pain
  • Tissue inflammation
  • The device getting loose and causing bone loss
  • Trouble standing and walking
  • Premature hip replacement failure
  • Infection
  • Necrosis that causes a rash
  • Pseudotumors
  • Swelling in the thigh, hip and groin area

Who Gets a Hip Implant?

A hip implant might be recommended when the natural hip joint is no longer sufficient. This can occur as a result of aging and the normal wear and tear of the joint, or diseases like osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

How Does a Hip Implant Work?

A hip implant works just like a natural hip in terms of mobility. The Stryker implant was metal-on-metal and worked to replace the joint to alleviate issues like pain and stiffness that the patient was experiencing with their natural hip joint. During the replacement procedure, the natural hip is removed and the artificial joint is put in its place.

As you can see, a personal injury settlement in Hudson Valley might be possible for patients who received a Stryker hip implant and experience premature breakdown of the implant. Now that you know more about this situation, you can better make the right decision for you.