Johnson & Johnson and subsidiary DePuy Orthopaedics is facing a growing multidistrict litigation consolidating claims that the company manufactured and produced an unreasonably dangerous medical product.

A new metal on metal hip lawsuit has been filed by couple, alleging the husband had suffered metal hip implant complications soon after having the device implemented. Plaintiff couple Fred C. and JoAnn C. are filing the metal on metal hip lawsuit after Fred allegedly suffered serious implant complications he says were not mentioned on the product’s warning label.

According to the metal on metal hip lawsuit, Fred underwent right hip replacement surgery on Nov. 9, 2006 after opting for the Pinnacle device. Fred also underwent left hip replacement surgery, getting the same metal on metal hip implant, after reviewing DePuy’s marketing materials.

Similar to other metal on metal hip implants, the Pinnacle device was marketed as an ideal choice for patients looking to restore hip function as well as their active lifestyle. When metal on metal hip implants were first introduced to the United States, they were advertised to be superior to ceramic and plastic models.

Metal on metal hip implants were thought to be more durable and longer lasting than other choices, and most models were  customizable to specific patients. The Pinnacle device was no different in this regard, as marketing materials stated it was an ideal choice for patients suffering from degenerated or damaged hip joints.

Overview of Metal on Metal Hip Implant Complications

These marketing materials reportedly focused on the device’s benefits, but plaintiffs like Fred say they failed to sufficiently discuss potential device complications, including potential metallosis. Soon after Fred’s implant procedures, he reportedly developed friction and wear between the all-metal components of the hip implant.

This allegedly caused cobalt and chromium metal ions to be shed into the bloodstream, which resulted in metallosis or blood metal poisoning. Fred had experienced severe pain and discomfort, and he was eventually forced to undergo revision surgery on his right hip on Sept. 16, 2016.

Fred and JoAnn are filing this metal on metal hip lawsuit, alleging the company either knew or should have known about the potential defects of the Pinnacle device. Ever since the device was released in 2001, patients have reported metal hip implant complications, with over 1,300 injury reports submitted to the FDA.

In addition, the Pinnacle device was approved through the FDA’s 510(k) program and did not have to undergo rigorous pre-clinical testing.

Fred and JoAnn is joining MDL No. 2244, where it will stand alongside other claims alleging similar injuries. Fred states he never would have opted for the Pinnacle device if he had known about potential metal hip implant complications.

At all times relevant, Fred says he had used the device for its intended purpose and did not deviate from physician instructions. Fred and JoAnn are seeking multiple damages against the company, including negligence and loss of consortium.

This Metal on Metal Hip Lawsuit is Case No. 3:17-cv-02926-K, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division.