Food and Drug Administration has ordered all producers of “metal-on-metal” artificial hips to commence studies of the implants, which have been linked to high early failure rates.  The order was directed to 21 manufacturers of “metal-on-metal” hip devices.  Manufacturers will be required to submit a research protocol to the FDA that addresses specific safety issues related to these devices. Data from the studies conducted will enable the FDA to better understand these devices and their

WHO GETS TO KEEP A REMOVED DEFECTIVE DEPUY HIP IMPLANT? The issue of who should obtain possession and control of a Depuy hip implant that has been removed because of its failure is an important issue in the litigation.  A removed hip implant is valuable evidence, and its preservation is critical. Attorneys for Depuy want to maintain control and the attorney for a Depuy client also wants control of the defective hip implant. At the

The issue of who should obtain possession and control of a Depuy hip implant that has been removed because of its failure is an important issue.  A removed hip implant is valuable evidence, and its preservation is critical. Attorneys for Depuy want to maintain control and the attorney for a Depuy client also wants control over the defective implant. A solution has not been decided.  It is expected that soon Judge Katz will decide this

Recently, DuPuy Companies announced a recall for artificial hip replacement of its ASR™ XL Acetabular Hip System and DePuy ASR™ Hip Resurfacing System.    The DuPuy hip recall is based on information that approximately 12% of patients have needed “revision surgery” based upon defects inherent in the original hip replacement system and how the original system functions.  In some instances patients have suffered pain, difficulty walking, bone problems, and other symptoms associated with the original implants.