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As the first product liability trials in the multi-district litigation (MDL) against DePuy Orthopaedics get underway, plaintiffs claim that the medical device manufacturer aggressively marketed their hip implants to surgeons even though they knew the design posed serious risks to patients. Lawyers argued that DePuy had knowledge that the metal-on-metal implants carried greater dangers than other available designs, but they chose not to reveal this information. It has further been alleged that DePuy salesman even offered kickbacks to surgeons in order to promote the use of their implants and booster sales. It is expected that more DePuy hip replacement lawsuits will be filed as the cases progress.

Why are the Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants Dangerous?

hip-xrayThe DePuy hip replacement system uses metal parts to completely replace damaged bone and cartilage removed during a total hip replacement. There is a metal ball that replaces the femoral head, a metal cup is placed into the acetabulum, and a metal liner is placed in between these two parts to hold them together. The metal-on-metal design has been found to rub together during normal use causing corrosion and a release of toxic metals into the blood stream. Once the metal is being released into the bloodstream, surrounding tissue becomes damaged, and the patient can develop metal poisoning. This is a serious condition that can lead to internal organ damage.

Six patients currently involved in the MDL trail in Texas developed similar complications as a result of their Pinnacle hip replacements and were required to undergo invasive revision surgery to remove the defective devices. They claim that DePuy knew of the dangers but continued to market the metal-on-metal devices to orthopedic doctors anyway.

What Injuries are Litigants Alleging?

Doctors Performing Surgery on Taunton MA man with back painSix of the plaintiffs currently involved in the MDL trials claim they experienced serious side effects as a result of their metal-on-metal hip implants, including infection and implant failure. Because the hip implants ultimately failed, they were all required to undergo invasive revision surgery to remove the defective devices. Revision surgeries can carry their own risks, including a much greater risk of infection.

Other litigants have reported side effects including severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility. The following side effects are also commonly reported in connection with metal-on-metal hip implants:

  • Hip dislocation
  • Infection of surgical site


  • Bone fracture
  • Nerve injury/pain


  • Red/swollen skin around hip area
  • Severe bruising

Contact an Experienced DePuy Hip Replacement Lawyer

personal injury lawyer meeting client over defective Metal-On-Metal ImplantsIf you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a DePuy hip replacement implant, you may be able to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. Our firm is working with experienced DePuy hip replacement lawyers across the country, who are investigating these cases. They may be able to file a DePuy hip implant lawsuit for you, and they charge no fee unless you win and award or settlement. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call our toll free number at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form online.

Author Photo

Paul d’Oliveira

Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.

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