Lawyers Expect More Lawsuits Against Exactech After Expanded Knee Device Recall
In April 2022, the medical device manufacturer, Exactech, expanded its initial recall of knee replacement devices. The company noted that a packaging defect affected more knee replacement devices than originally described in the first recall.
Exactech stated in August 2021 that certain devices faced harmful oxygenation from insufficient packaging. However, all devices with insufficient packaging would later be recalled—regardless of the product’s labeling or shelf life. As a result, lawyers have noticed an uptick in liability lawsuits related to the product and anticipate that additional suits will soon be filed as patients receive recall letters.
What’s the Problem with Exactech Knee Replacement Devices?
The source of the problem with Exactech’s knee replacement devices is a polyethylene (plastic) insert. Due to the chemical makeup of this component, the device must be stored and shipped inside oxygen-tight packaging. However, certain devices did not receive a secondary protective packaging layer during manufacturing, which led to damage from oxidation.
As a result, these knee replacement devices can be mechanically compromised. They could wear more rapidly, loosen, or crack inside a patient’s body. These issues could lead to further health complications for patients, such as knee swelling, pain, or bone loss.
Exactech advises that patients with affected devices should be closely monitored in anticipation of potential device failure. The company does not suggest that affected devices should be preemptively removed if patients are not experiencing symptoms or pain related to the device. However, those facing wear or pain may require revision surgery. Exactech will cover out-of-pocket expenses for these necessary procedures.
Suits Against Other Knee Replacement Manufacturers
Exactech is not the only company facing liability for knee replacement device failures and defects. The following manufacturers have faced lawsuits:
- Depuy Attune
- Zimmer NexGen
- Arthrex iBalance
- Sulzer Medica
- Zimmer Biomet
- Stryker
In 2018, plaintiffs received a settlement in the MDL against Zimmer NexGen. However, the settlement amount was confidential. In 2002, Sulzer settled 4,000 liability claims for $1 billion.
Many of these knee replacement lawsuits argue that the devices either loosened inside the body or failed to properly attach to the knee bone after surgery. As a result, patients often require revision surgery to address the consequences of these defects.
A Lawyer Can Help You Bring a Liability Case for a Defective Knee Replacement
You could bring a case for compensation if a faulty knee replacement device caused your injury. To recover compensation, however, you will need to show that:
- You had a defective or recalled knee replacement device implanted.
- The device’s defect or design flaw led directly to the health complications you face.
- You suffered damages, such as medical expenses, as a result.
Patients can seek a financial recovery for damages in addition to the costs of revision surgery. You could get compensation for necessary medications, hospitalizations, rehabilitation costs, and more. You could also seek damages such as pain and suffering or lost income.
A personal injury and mass tort lawsuit lawyer can help you understand your eligibility for a lawsuit, build a legal strategy, and stand beside you throughout your case. Contact our team today to learn more and get connected with a lawyer in our network.