All artificial hip implants carry risks, including the wear of the component material. However, the risks of metal-on-metal hip implants are unique and can be extremely serious. In metal-on-metal implants, the metal ball and cup slide against each other during activity. As the pieces grind together, wear and tear occurs, releasing tiny metal particles into the bloodstream, leaving patients at risk of bone, tissue and muscle damage.
As a result of these concerns, many metal-on-metal hip implants have been recalled. In 2013, DePuy withdrew the metal-on-metal Pinnacle from the market but the implant was never recalled.
If you’ve been implanted with a Pinnacle hip implant, how do you know if it’s defective or not?
Common symptoms for defective hip implants include:
- Elevated cobalt and chromium levels (sign of metallosis)
- Numbness
- Severe pain in the hip or groin
- Instability in the hip joint
- Swelling
- Signs of infection, such as redness or discharge
- Loosening of the hip joint
- Changes in your ability to walk
- Strange noises, such as popping, grinding, squeaking or clicking
Issues from a defective implant can result in permanent damage and loss of enjoyment of life.
Years can pass between your initial hip replacement surgery and the onset of symptoms. If you have experienced any of the symptoms mentioned above, please consult your medical provider, as it could be a sign of a defective hip implant. Contact our Sacramento DePuy hip replacement attorneys at Kershaw Talley Barlow today.
Call (916) 520-6639 or fill out our online form for a free DePuy hip replacement claim consultation.