Smith & Nephew Issues Hip Implant Recall

In June of 2012, U.K. based medical device manufacturer Smith & Nephew issued a recall of a metal liner belonging to its R3 Acetabular System.

The R3 Acetabular System is a modular system, which was created to allow the surgeon to custom-pick the parts that might best fit the patient.  The parts were made of a proprietary alloy of oxidized zirconium, which was supposed to combine the wear-resistent characteristics of ceramic with the strength of metal.  The company hoped to avoid the problems that were occurring with metal-on-metal hip implants.

The company claimed that their metal liners would fit better into the acetabular cup, resulting in better outcomes for patients.

Unfortunately, despite its efforts, Smith & Nephew was not able to avoid problems with their hip implants.

Problems reported with the Smith & Nephew recalled liner include:

• Infection
• Bone Fractures
• Bone Chipping
• Dislocation of Implant
• Metallosis
• Chronic Pain

Thousands of patients have suffered serious and long-lasting consequences, and are seeking compensation from the manufacturer.  If you have a Smith & Nephew hip implant and have suffered serious complications, contact an attorney at Kirkendall Dwyer LLP as soon as possible.  You are entitled to your medical expenses, as well as compensation for pain and suffering, loss of future earnings, and lost wages.