Lawsuits Over DePuy Pinnacle Hip Problems
Design defects with the DePuy Pinnacle may increase the risk of severe pain, dislocation, early hip replacement failure, or the need for revision surgery.
The attorneys at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. previously reviewed individual claims and potential class action lawsuits for individuals who experienced problems with the Pinnacle metal-on-metal hip implant. DePuy ASR hip cases were also reviewed for those who received a recalled system.
DEPUY PINNACLE METAL-ON-METAL HIP PROBLEMS
The DePuy Pinnacle is a metal-on-metal hip replacement system, similar in many ways to the recalled DePuy ASR hip system, which was pulled from the market in August 2010 due to high failure rates. However, many individuals also reported serious complications with the Pinnacle system, believed to stem from similar design flaws.
Compensation was previously pursued through lawsuits involving Pinnacle hip complications such as:
- Unexplained Hip Pain
- Difficulty Standing or Walking
- Loss of Mobility
- Loosening of a DePuy Pinnacle Hip
- Hip Replacement Failure
- Additional Hip Revision Surgery
DePuy Orthopaedics and Johnson & Johnson obtained FDA clearance for the Pinnacle implant under the 510(k) fast-track process, claiming it was “substantially equivalent” to older devices. However, mounting evidence indicated the Pinnacle system may have been prone to early failure.
Lawsuits alleged the metal-on-metal design released microscopic metal particles, leading to metallosis, toxicity, and inflammation. Placement of the implant was also considered technically difficult, increasing the likelihood of complications even in the hands of skilled surgeons.
Despite growing complaints, DePuy never issued a recall for the Pinnacle implant or provided adequate warnings about the risks.
