Add Up Articles Directory | Free Articles | New Articles Daily | The DePuy Recall — Symptoms, Claims and Other Issues of Concern

Are you concerned that you may have been affected by faulty DePuy hip replacement systems? That was the big news in the summer of 2010. DePuy recalled two specific types of hip replacement systems because of a risk of metal ion contamination. Because of these complications, some patients have had to go back to their doctors for further testing, and in some cases, for a second surgery.

Are you concerned that you may be affected by the metal ions in these systems? What are the most common symptoms that patients should be looking for? The most common symptoms are pain, swelling and problems with walking. This may seem a little tricky to you, considering that these are actually normal symptoms that typically follow a successful hip replacement surgery. However, if you notice these symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery period, or coming back suddenly after a complete recovery, then this could indicate some further complications.

There are actually several ways the device could fail, and these are all factors related to the DePuy recall. For example, the implant may become disconnected to the bone. The surrounding area of the implant and bone could fracture. The two parts of the implant could also become dislocated.

It’s important to understand the function of the ASR hip to truly grasp the complexities of the DePuy hip replacement recall. This system is made of components that resemble a ball and socket operation. These parts are made of metal and are subject to wear, the longer a person walks. In operation, these parts release very tiny particles, too small to be perceived by the human eye. These particles are not actually harmful to the average person. However, some patients have reported having adverse reactions to the metal particles. Adverse reactions may include the patient retaining fluid in his or her joints and in surrounding muscles. If this goes on for a time, pain and swelling can occur.

It is important that you visit your surgeon or hospital and undergo testing to see if the hip system is working properly. Such tests will usually involve x-rays as well as a blood test. The blood test can let a doctor know about the level of microscopic metal particles that could be gathering around your hip area. If the surgeon deems it necessary, your surgeon may also want to use an ultrasound or MRI for additional testing.

Most importantly, verify with your doctor or hospital the dates in which surgery was performed. Many patients are coming forward with DePuy lawsuit actions, but only certain cases are eligible for payments claims or litigation. Only hip replacement systems produced after July of 2003 are faulty. Unfortunately, some patients are overreacting and trying to file lawsuits for products that are not defective. Make sure you talk to surgeon and get the facts about your hip replacement surgery before pressing on. The truth always comes out eventually, and justice will be served in this case. In fact, DePuy is already making amends with its patients.