Hip implants are supposed to last for at least 15 years.  According to figures, no more than 5% of hip implant patients should require revision surgery within 5 years.  However with the DePuy implant, over 13% of patients so far have required revision surgery due to the failure of the implant.

Other than failing completely, some of the other problems include loosening of implanted cups, dislocation, lack of bone growth into implanted cups and metalosis.  There have also been reports of inflammation or tissue damage from the metal shavings.  This can be very nasty leading to the tissue surrounding the implant to die and rot.

As a result DePuy discontinued sales of the ASR XL implant in 2009.  However they used the reason for discontinuing the sales as being due to declining sales.  However by March 2010 they began warning doctors about the early failure rates and took steps to recall all remaining stock.

As part of the recall, DePuy is asking patients to sign a medical release and return the faulty implant after removal.  It has indicated it will only pay “reasonable and customary costs of monitoring and treatment” related to the recalled hip implants.  The offer does nothing to compensate patients for the necessity of undergoing a repeat surgery or the pain, suffering, lost wages or time they have experienced.

If you have been contacted about the DePuy Implant Recall, DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING before consulting an expert no win no fee solicitor.