DePuy ASR Hip System Recall Lawyers

ASR XL Acetabular System & ASR Hip Resurfacing System Recall

A new medical recall has some startling consequences for those who have undergone hip implant surgeries. A Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, DePuy Orthopedics, Inc., opened a recall for the ASR™ hip system after researchers found that the implants have a 12 to 13 percent surgical revision rate for the ASR™ Hip Replacement System at approximately five years. The highest risk is for the smaller heads usually implanted in women.

The voluntary recall came after the FDA issued a warning letter to Johnson & Johnson and DePuy on August 19, 2010, for not obtaining FDA marketing clearance or approval before the product release in the U.S. DePuy obtained approval for the ASR™ Hip Resurfacing System only outside of the U.S., and the ASR™ XL Acetabular System had global marketing.

ASR Hip Replacement System Defect

The ASR XL Acetabular System replaces a bone in the hip region called the acetabulum, or the socket part of the hip. The implant is made of metal ball and sockets that naturally erode with time. The friction causes debris in the form of microscopic particles. Some patients experience a reaction to the particles in the form of fluid that collects in the joint and muscles around the joint. Those who have failing implants may notice symptoms including increased pain, swelling or impaired motor ability. If not treated, there can be permanent damage to the bone and soft tissue.

What to Do If You Have a DePuy ASR Hip System

DePuy is providing instructions to medical providers regarding the defective product. However, you can take a proactive stance. First, if you have had a hip replacement, but are not sure whether it is a DePuy ASR™ Hip System, contact your surgeon, general physician or the hospital where the surgery took place. Your records indicate the type of hip replacement system that was implanted.

Depending on your symptoms, if any, your treatment provider will perform a series of tests. These tests include x-rays to determine if the implant is dislocated or separated from the bone, blood tests to show the level of metal particles around your hip, or an MRI or ultrasound if blood tests continue to show a high level of the particles.

Depending on the outcome of these tests, your surgeon might advise continued follow-up to ensure that your ASR™ hip system continues to function normally or surgical revision. DePuy Orthopaedics informed surgeons in its instructions that the company intends to cover reasonable and customary costs associated with the recall.

Pennsylvania Defective Products Lawyers

While the company is voluntarily compensating patients for the actual medical treatment associated with the ASR™ XL Acetabular System and ASR Hip Resurfacing System recall, the medical costs are not the only damages that you may be entitled to under the law. Recalling hip implants is not like recalling medications. For those who have a failing hip implant, the costs of replacing the device can be significant, but replacing a hip implant is a complex and often-difficult procedure that can include extended care, more surgery-related pain and extensive rehabilitation. If you have a DePuy ASR™ Hip System, contact the experienced legal team at Cherry Injury Law to learn about your legal options.

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If you have been seriously injured in the state of Pennsylvania by the negligence of another and if you have questions or concerns about your legal rights, please don’t hesitate to call. Our Pennsylvania injury attorneys are available 24 hours a day to speak with you, and we welcome all calls at no charge. Contact us today at 610-565-0300.