Stryker Rejuvenate Hip Settlements
This content is provided for informational and historical reference only. Saiontz & Kirk is no longer reviewing new Stryker hip replacement cases.
In November 2014, a major Stryker Rejuvenate settlement was announced to resolve many of the lawsuits filed by individuals who required revision surgery after receiving the recalled modular hip system. The manufacturer agreed to pay more than $1 billion to settle approximately 4,000 cases involving Rejuvenate and ABG II implants.
Background on the Rejuvenate Hip Litigation
Stryker issued a nationwide recall for the Rejuvenate and ABG II modular-neck hip stems in July 2012, after identifying an increased risk of fretting, corrosion, and failure of the metal-on-metal components. As individuals nationwide began experiencing complications—often resulting in painful revision surgery—thousands of lawsuits were filed in both state and federal courts.
A court-ordered mediation process was established to facilitate early settlements. While some individual cases were resolved in the years that followed, many claims took years to settle due to the complexity of injuries and required surgeries.
Complications Reported with Stryker Rejuvenate Implants
Common issues associated with these implants included:
- Pain and swelling
- Loosening of the hip replacement
- Metal poisoning (metallosis)
- Tissue damage or pseudotumors
- Premature failure and need for revision surgery
Factors Considered in Settling Stryker Rejuvenate Hip Lawsuits
When early Stryker Rejuvenate settlements were negotiated following the 2012 recall, compensation amounts were largely based on the type and severity of injuries experienced by each individual.
At the time, coordinated court-ordered mediation was underway in New Jersey state court, while a group of “bellwether” cases was being prepared for potential early trial dates. These bellwether trials were intended to help both sides assess how juries might respond to evidence presented across thousands of similar claims.
Settlement values and potential trial awards were influenced by:
- The nature and extent of any injury caused by the Stryker hip implant;
- The effect these hip complications had on the overall physical and mental health or well-being of the plaintiff;
- The pain and mental anguish suffered in the past and which will likely to be suffered in the future;
- The amount of any past and future medical expenses incurred following the Stryker Rejuvenate surgery;
- Any lost wages or loss of earning capacity;
If Stryker had refused to engage in fair settlement discussions, the company faced the possibility of hundreds of individual trials across the U.S. Instead, early resolution efforts led to a large global settlement in 2014, with additional settlements in the years that followed.
While some individuals continue to live with Stryker Rejuvenate or ABG II implants, Saiontz & Kirk is no longer accepting new claims. Those who may still experience complications should consult a medical provider and speak with an attorney in their state to understand their legal options.
All cases previously handled by our firm were pursued under a contingency fee agreement, with no fees or expenses unless a recovery was obtained.
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