In January of 2013, the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a safety communication advising healthcare professionals and the general public regarding the risks associated with metal-on-metal hip implants. These medical devices have been linked to serious adverse results, including loosening of the joint, pain, bone and soft tissue damage, as well as metal poisoning. Because of the strict time limitations involved in hip implant lawsuit cases, anyone who believes they may have sustained an injury due to a faulty hip implant should discuss their case with an attorney as soon as possible.
Varying Statutes of Limitations
Claims involving injuries caused by defective medical devices are governed by state law. Each state has its own rules regarding when a lawsuit may be brought, called a “statute of limitations.” These laws vary greatly, and have specific rules as to when the statute of limitations begins to run. The time you have to file a claim depends on the law applicable to your case as well as on your individual circumstances. As a result, it is important to talk to an attorney as soon as you realize that you may have suffered adverse side-effects associated with your metal-on-metal hip implant.
Common Complications Associated with Hip Implants
Patients who have received hip implants should be fully aware of the potential complications that can occur. Some of the more common issues that hip implant patients experience include:
- Severe pain in the joint;
- Damage to the bone around the implant;
- Injury to the tissues around the joint;
- Dislocation of the implant;
- Infection;
- Parts of the implant coming loose from one another;
- Particle debris in the area around the implant; and
- Metal ions in the bloodstream.
These complications have the potential to significantly affect a person’s quality of life and ability to work. In addition, correcting the problem may require costly and painful surgeries. When complications are caused by a faulty device, victims of defective hip implants can recover for these and other losses by filing a legal claim against the device manufacturer. It is important for people affected by hip implants to act quickly, as any delay could potentially jeopardize the right to recover for any losses.
Contact a Hip Implant Lawsuit Attorney Today
The attorneys of Lopez McHugh LLP are committed to helping people hurt by defective medical devices recover compensation for their injuries. Contact our office today at (877) 737-8525 to schedule a free case analysis of your hip implant claim.
