Stryker Corporation is facing a new product liability lawsuit alleging serious Stryker metal hip complications, which eventually forced the claimant to undergo revision surgery. The Stryker metal hip lawsuit was filed by a Tennessee man, alleging the implant’s defective nature caused him to develop Stryker metal hip complications.

Plaintiff Samuel B. had the device implanted on Nov. 26, 2012, after reviewing the company’s advertisements and going over the decision with his physician. This Stryker metal hip implant consisted of the Accolade II Stem and LFIT V40 head, both metal components that made up the implant.

When Samuel opted for the Stryker metal hip implant, Samuel and his physician relied on the marketing materials provided by Stryker Corporation and received no information regarding Stryker metal hip complications from the company. Samuel states he would never have opted for the company metal hip implant if he had known about the potential Stryker metal hip complications.

The Stryker metal on metal hip implant was supposed to restore movement to his damaged hip bones and was marketed as a superior choice in the orthopedic market. However, soon after having the device implanted, Samuel reportedly began experiencing Stryker metal hip complications which included discomfort in the implant area.

According to the diagnostic work conducted, the Stryker metal hip complications developed included device loosening, infection, malposition, and other symptoms associated with implant complications. According to the lawsuit, over time, Samuel’s Stryker metal hip complications worsened, and on June 15, 2016, Samuel underwent revision surgery.

During the revision surgery, it was discovered that an infection had developed around the hip implant site. According to Samuel, this caused his to need further revision surgery on Aug. 30, 2016, and again on Nov. 02, 2016, in order to thoroughly treat his Stryker metal hip complications.

At all relevant times, Samuel alleges he used the medical device for its intended purpose and followed all medical instructions after surgery. Samuel opted to file legal action against Stryker Orthopedics, after discovering the company may have known about potential Stryker metal hip complications.

Overview of Stryker Metal Hip Complications

When metal on metal hip implants were first introduced to the market, they were thought to be superior to other ceramic and plastic models. Metal on metal hip implants were marketed to be longer lasting and more durable than other options, along with many of the models being customizable to patients.

Metal hip implants became especially popular among younger patients, hoping to live an active lifestyle after hip implant surgery. However, numerous patients have reportedly developed metal hip implant complications, stemming from the metal components.

When the ball and socket components of device interact, metal ions are shed into the bloodstream and can lead to blood metal poisoning. Additionally, the metal debris can cause infection, fretting, corrosion, and formation of pseudotumors at the implant site. This can ultimately lead to debilitating pain, with many patients having to undergo revision surgery.

This Stryker Metal Hip Lawsuit is Case No. 2:17-cv-02792-SHL-cgc, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, Memphis Division.