When new products are created and placed on the market, consumers expect those products to have been thoroughly tested for safety. Most products do go through rigorous testing, and consumers never have a problem with them. Yet, sometimes a negligent company or manufacturer puts a dangerous product on the market, placing consumers at extreme risk of harm. This may be especially true when those defective products are medical devices.
This is what happened with the Stryker Rejuvenate and ABG II hip implants, which, after less than two years on the market, were found to fret and corrode at the modular-neck junction. For comparison, a typical hip replacement lasts 15 to 20 years. The defects in the Stryker implants may cause adverse local tissue reactions, hip failure, necrosis, metallosis, and the need for revision surgery. Other metal-on-metal hip implants have faced similar issues, with DePuy recently settling a class-action lawsuit with about 8,000 patients.
Lawsuits revolving around the Stryker implants are still coming forward, with nearly 1,000 complaints filed. Some of the cases are being settled through mediation, while others are still pending. When a mass tort like this leaves several injured, it may be in all injured individuals to seek a class action lawsuit. These lawsuits often send a loud message to a negligent manufacturer or company that unsafe practices will not be tolerated. Such a lawsuit may also help injured individuals recover damage related to medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The lawsuit process, generally, and the class action lawsuit specifically, can be very complex. A Texas attorney with experience handling these types of cases can be useful in bringing forth a lawsuit. He or she can simplify the process for a client, discuss legal options, and vigorously work to develop legal arguments to support the case. With a strong advocate by their side, a class of injured individuals stands a chance at correcting a major wrong and protecting other Americans.
Harmed by a defective hip implant? Call (844) 297-8898 today to discuss your legal options in detail.
