The FDA has ordered a review of all metal-on-metal hip implants due to mounting patient complaints. Problems include loosening, fracturing and dislocating of the device caused by inflammation in the joint space. In addition many patients have experienced soft tissue damage and metal poisoning because these devices can shed particles of chromium and cobalt into the bloodstream.
The FDA has received more complaints related to metal-on-metal hips during the first six months of this year than during the past four years combined.
While the DePuy ASR which was recalled in August 2010 has received the most attention, there have been there have been numerous complaints of other metal-on-metal hip implants.
The manufacturers of these devices include
- DePuy
- Zimmer
- Wright Medical
- Stryker
- Biomet
- Among others
As of 10/10/11 there had been 2,248 cases filed in the DePuy ASR MDL in the Northern District of Ohio.
Over 500 DePuy Pinnacle Complaints have been consolidated in the Multi-District Litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Texas.
