What Happens if My Knee Replacement Has Been Recalled?

What should you do if you learn that the product that’s been surgically implanted in you, like a replacement joint, has been recalled? Knee replacement is typically a simple and efficient procedure that can improve mobility and quality of life for many patients, but a defective knee replacement can inflict painful symptoms as well as decrease mobility and lead to complications from fragments entering the bloodstream.

If you or a loved one has sustained an injury or disability due to a recalled knee replacement, the experienced defective medical device attorneys at the Buckeye Law Group will zealously pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. We’ll fight for just reimbursement so you don’t have to pay out of pocket for a manufacturer’s mistake.

Recent Knee Replacement Recalls

• Exactech: In 2023, some joint replacement devices manufactured and shipped by Exactech (including knee replacement) from 2004 to 2011 were recalled due to defective packaging. It was discovered that the faulty packaging increased their risk of oxidation, which can lead to accelerated wear and tear, fracturing and replacement failure.

• Smith & Nephew: In 2018, Smith & Nephew’s Journey I BCS Knee System was recalled because of early loosening that was causing patients to schedule frequent revision surgeries.

• DePuy: In 2017, Depuy Synthes issued a recall for its Sigma knee components due to premature failure and high rates of revision surgery. Depuy has issued numerous recalls for knee replacement parts for various reasons, ranging from defective packaging to fracturing during surgery.

• Zimmer Biomet: Also in 2017, Zimmer Biomet recalled more than 28,000 different knee replacement units, including its Vanguard Total Knee System for mislabeling, its Persona Partial Knee instruments for misalignment issues and its Persona Partial Knee Spacer Blocks for limited flexibility.

• Stryker: In 2016, Stryker’s Orthopaedics Patella Assembly Instruments were recalled due to having a brittle construction that was prone to falling apart.

• Arthrex Inc.: In 2015, Arthrex, Inc. issued a recall for its iBalance TKA Tibial Tray because of a design defect that gave the equipment a smooth metal surface instead of a textured surface, aggravating friction in the joints and accelerating wear and tear.

• Sulzer Inter-Op: In 2001, Sulzer Orthopedics recalled certain Inter-Op Acetabular Shell and Inter-Op Modular Head units due to a manufacturing defect that elevated the risk of premature failure.

Do I Need Surgery?

According to the FDA, you should only schedule surgery to remove a recalled knee replacement if it’s defective. Not every unit of a recalled product is defective. If you feel fine and your replacement is functioning as expected, you may not need surgery. It’s vital to consult with your orthopedist and surgeon to assess the ongoing stability and reliability of your replacement joint before making any decisions.

Signs you may require surgical removal include:

• Loosening
• Premature wear and tear
• Swelling and inflammation
• Visible bruising or contours
• Ongoing and unresponsive pain
• Recurring infection
• Fever or chills unrelated to an illness

What Should You Do If Your Knee Replacement Was Recalled?

Even if you aren’t experiencing issues with your replacement, you should still immediately contact your healthcare provider. They’ll assess your condition and advise you on whether revision surgery is necessary or not. Your healthcare provider can also order an X-ray to ensure the recalled device isn’t causing inconspicuous damage to your joint and monitor you for future changes.

After seeking medical attention, you should consult with an experienced defective medical device attorney to discuss your legal options. If you were directly injured by the recalled replacement, you may be eligible to file a civil lawsuit and pursue compensation.

Level the Playing Field Against Corporate Legal Teams With an Aggressive Defective Medical Device Lawyer On Your Side

At the Buckeye Law Group, we’ll give you an honest and grounded evaluation of your claim while fighting to increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement. Our defective medical device attorneys have the knowledge and resources to build a robust case with straightforward evidence and expert testimony that clearly establish liability. Lawsuits involving recalls typically implicate the manufacturer, but if your surgeon used tools or implants that they should have known were defective, they may also be partially responsible and owe you compensation.

We’ll work hard to secure the best possible outcome for your case and won’t hesitate to take the manufacturer to court if necessary. Schedule a free case consultation with one of our attorneys today by calling 1-800-411-PAIN or filling out our contact form today.