A manufacturer of metal hip implants, Stryker Orthopedics, is recently facing problems with several models of its popular hip metal replacement device known as the Stryker LFIT.

The recall was issued in response to a large number of Stryker LFIT hip implant problems being reported.

The Stryker LFIT hip implant problems have been so widespread that a recall has been issued for several models of the product. The device fails at the part where the femoral head connects to the femoral neck of the metal hip implant.

The pre-2011 Accolade TMZF, Accolade 2 Meridian and Citation femoral heads, with diameters ranging from 36 mm to 44 mm with varying offsets are included in the recall.

Stryker LFIT Hip Implant Problems

A number of Stryker LFIT hip implant problems are associated with the product’s recall. Patients suffering from issues related to their medical device implant include:

• Device fracture located at the hip stem trunnion
• Dislocation of the hip joint
• Implant loosening
• Metal poisoning, also known as metallosis
• Dissociation of the femoral head from the hip stem
• Joint instability
• Loss of mobility
• Inflammation
• Severe pain
• Necrosis (tissue death) and tissue damage in areas surrounding the implant
• Broken bones in structures surrounding the implant

After patients disclose these symptoms and side effects to their physicians, the only way to resolve the issues most of the time is to have the patient undergo a revision surgery.

Hip revision surgeries are more likely to cause patients a longer recovery time and is a riskier procedure than an initial hip replacement surgery.

It is not known what the exact cause of the Stryker LFIT hip implant problems are that led to the recall. It may be a design defect or a manufacturing defect that caused the device to fail.

Stryker has faced other recalls, and these were to the metals used in the manufacture of the device.

Stryker LFIT Hip Implant Problems Prompt Lawsuits

Even before Stryker issued its recent recall, a number of lawsuits were already pending against the manufacturer that discussed the use Stryker LFIT hip implant problems now associated with the recall.

The lawsuits filed against Stryker allege that the femoral head of the device failed, causing personal injury and the need for revision surgery, causing patients to experience physical and emotional pain and suffering.

Currently, a class action lawsuit investigation is underway to investigate the Stryker LFIT hip implant problems that have been disclosed.

Potential plaintiffs who have had the device fail may be eligible to seek legal compensation from Stryker to assist in covering the costs associated with medical care, damages related to physical and emotional pain and suffering costs of lost wages due to inability to work, compensation for loss of spousal companionship and more.

Lawyers are available to conduct a free case review for individuals who have experienced Stryker LFIT hip implant problems. For those who qualify, an attorney can help individuals make a decision about potentially taking legal action against Stryker.