Defective Metal Hip Causes Pain and Suffering, J&J Unit to Pay over $8 Million in Damages

 Posted on April 15, 2013 in Defective Medical Devices

Johnson & Johnson's DePuy orthopedic unit was ordered to pay $8.3 million in damages in a trial over artificial metal hips that were found to be defective, the Chicago Tribune reported on March 8. A Los Angeles jury ordered Depuy to pay over $338,000 in medical costs and $8 million for pain and suffering to Loren Kransky.

DePuy recalled the defective metal hips three years ago when it was found that the devices did not function as expected. Almost 100,000 ASR metal hips had been sold before the recall. “We believe ASR XL was properly designed, and that DePuy's actions concerning the product were appropriate and responsible,” said DePuy spokeswoman Loire Gawreluk. The company is planning to appeal the court's decision.

The defective metal hip resulted in increased levels of cobalt and chromium in Kransky, causing pain and suffering. Depuy's lawyers argued that it is not known what levels of metals may cause pain and harm to patients and claimed that Kransky's other medical problems, for example his diabetes and heart disease, were the actual source of his suffering.

The metal implants are supposed to be more durable than other implants, but they have been shown to fail more frequently than traditional implants. All-metal implants may wear out and become dangerous in time, causing damage to bone and soft tissue. It has been estimated that about 500,000 Americans have received metal hip replacements.

If you or someone you know is suffering because of a faulty medical device, you may be eligible to receive compensation. The help of a knowledgeable lawyer can significantly improve your chances of winning. Don't go through it alone. Contact a highly experienced defective medical device attorney in Northern Illinois at your earliest convenience.