More Problems with Metal-on-Metal Hip Components – Smith & Nephew Recalls R3 Acetabular System

Keefe Bartels previously informed implant patients of the dangerously high failure rate of metal-on-metal artificial hips. Today, more disconcerting news confirms the serious risks and harms associated with these types of medical devices. Smith & Nephew issued a recall of the component parts used (either a metal liner or cup) in its R3 Acetabular System in artificial hip implant. [See photo of component part of R3 Acetabular System - http://global.smith-nephew.com/us/R3_Acetabular_System_24410.htm]

Recent findings reveal that patients are experiencing complications including fractures, dislocations and infections. These finding are above the guidelines established by Britain's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. A spokesman for Smith & Nephew denies that there has been evidence of "metallosis," which is the accumulation of metallic particles in the body part where the device was implanted. ["Smith & Nephew pulls metal-on-metal hip component," Reuters web site article (June 1, 2012) at http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/01/us-smithnephew-hip-idUSBRE85010J20120601]

Since the introduction of the R3 Acetabular System approximately 7,700 metal lines have been implanted in patients.

Earlier this year Keefe Bartels informed patients of the study released in The Lancet, one of the world's leading medical journals, concluding that metal-on-metal hip replacements have a higher failure rate than other types of medical hip devices. The report raised safety concerns and the call for a ban of such implants once previously considered to be the ideal choice because of the lifespan provided by its metal composition. New studies may yet further uncover the risks and dangers of metal implants by Smith & Nephew and several other manufacturers of these devices.

The medical products liability attorneys at Keefe Bartels are hard at work doing their part to protect people from the harm and danger posed by the use of defective and unsafe metal-on-metal hip implants that expose patients to unreasonable risks of harm and injury which could have been prevented. If you or someone you know has had hip implant surgery with this artificial implant and is experiencing complication, you may have a legal claim or lawsuit related to these defective medical devices. Contact the trial attorneys at Keefe Bartels to see if they can help you.

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT KEEFE BARTELS, LLC HAS NOT GIVEN YOU ANY MEDICAL ADVICE. IF YOU HAVE OR ARE CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING ANY PHYSICAL PROBLEMS, YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL.