Stryker Orthopedics voluntarily recalled its Rejuvenate and ABG II modular hip stems on July 6, 2012 due to fretting and corrosion. The neck components of the Rejuvenate and ABG II are made of chromium and cobalt, and the stems are coated with a proprietary titanium alloy. Corrosion of these implants can lead to dangerous cobalt ions being released into your tissues and blood stream resulting in severe damage to bone and muscle.
The recall notice described several complications caused by the products:
- Fretting and corrosion in and around the modular neck junction can release excessive metal debris into the surrounding tissue.
- Metal ions in surrounding tissues can result in inflammation leading to an immunological response including metallosis (metal poisoning), necrosis (tissue and bone death) and pain requiring revision surgery.
- Patients with metal sensitivity may have a severe allergic reaction that requires revision surgery.
- Excessive metal debris in the joint space can lead to osteolysis, also known as bone loss, and may require revision surgery.
Experts have urged anyone who received the implants to consider having their blood tested for cobalt and chromium levels, even if they have experienced no unusual side effects or symptoms.
- Pain during movement or walking
- Swelling near hip or in groin area
- Lumps near affected hip
- Squeaking or popping noises during movement
- Metallosis (cobalt and/or chromium poisoning)
- Adverse Local Tissue Reaction (“ALTR”)
- Need for early revision surgery due to failed components
On November 3, 2014, Stryker agreed to settle thousands of pending lawsuits and claims involving its Rejuvenate and ABGII modular hip stems. Click here for a copy of the 2014 Settlement Agreement and here for a copy of the 2016 Agreement. The average claimant in these settlements received compensation in excess of $300,000.00. Although the deadline for participation in these settlement programs has passed, Meshbesher & Spence continues accept Rejuvenate and ABGII cases for representation and continues to pursue lawsuits against Stryker on behalf of its clients.
If you had a hip replacement between 2008 and 2012, and do not know whether a Rejuvenate or ABG II component was implanted, please give us a call. We will contact the hospital and obtain this information for you free of charge. Meshbesher & Spence is lead and liaison counsel for the national litigation against Stryker, and we represent patients nationwide. Please protect your rights by calling us today.
