Total hip replacements can be life-changing for many people who are living with severe pain. Unfortunately, thousands of Americans are now experiencing very serious problems with artificial hip devices made by Stryker. In July 2012, Stryker issued a voluntary recall of their Rejuvenate Modular and ABG neck hip implants. According to Stryker, the Rejuvenate and ABG have potential fretting or corrosion issues. I personally speak with clients every day who complain about pain, broken bones, fluid, swelling, elevated cobalt levels and fatigue associated with the Stryker Rejevunate Hip.
Many people do not know what make or model hip implant they have. Therefore, we always order a complete copy of the medical records, including the operative report and X-rays to identify the implant. According to the FDA, Stryker notified doctors and patients about the recall. If you have not received any information about your hip, you should contact your doctor immediately or contact me to find out for you free of charge.
Sadly, many patients who have recalled Stryker hips must undergo painful surgeries to fix or remove the implants. This is called revision surgery. Compared to the initial implantation, revision surgeries are far more complicated for both surgeon and patient. The risks to benefits of revision surgery should be assessed on an individual patient basis. Some of the benefits of undergoing a hip revision surgery are: improved mobility, strength, and living again without pain. Unfortunately, there are serious risks too, including infection, nerve damage, broken bones, pain and additional surgery.
There are many technical issues involving removal and re-implantation that require a skilled and experienced orthopedic team. The skill set for implanting a hip and revising a hip implant are not exactly the same. Most orthopedic surgeons that do hip implant surgeries know how to put them in. However, taking them out, especially when the device is defective, and the patient has other medical issues, is very challenging.
Patients that have a recalled or defective hip, and are considering having the device removed or repaired, must confirm that the surgeon is very experienced in performing revision surgeries. When selecting an orthopedic surgeon to perform a hip revision surgery, it is important to verify that they are Board Certified by The American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and specialize in hip implants.
For instance, Dr. Robert Zann, pictured above with me after he successfully performed a revision operation, is a Board Certified orthopedic surgeon in South Florida, specializing in hip replacements. He is considered by many, including me, to one of the most respected and experienced experts the country. Since Stryker’s recall, Dr. Zann and his talented staff have operated on dozens of patients who have had health problems with their implants.
It is too early to tell what long term complications people will have who have received Stryker Rejuvenate and ABG implants. However, we have filed implant claims for many victims already. If you believe you have received a Stryker hip implant, please contact me for a free and confidential evaluation of your case.
