- LAWYER URGES VICTIMS TO COME FORWARD AND GET FREE ADVICE ON LEGAL RIGHTS

- REPORT REVEALS “TOXIC TREND” IN REGULATION OF MEDICAL DEVICES

Reacting to BBC reports that the MHRA have advised that patients who have undergone large head metal on metal hip implants should be monitored annually for life and that a joint BBC Newsnight and BMJ investigation - to be aired tonight - reveals that the problems with such devices have been long known, but no action was taken to block their use, partner at Thompsons Solicitors and lawyer for around 150 Scottish victims of the hips, Patrick McGuire, said:

“The MHRA’s announcement reveals just how serious this problem is.  Initially we had a recall of the DePuy ASR hip implants, but now this points to something a lot wider. 

“Reports say that MHRA figures suggest that 75% of those in the UK with metal on metal hips were in a high risk category for complications.  This is a scandal on a massive scale that could conceivably affect thousands of Scots.”

The MHRA predict that around 49,000 UK patients with large-head hip implants out of 65,000 with all-metal hips were deemed as in a high risk category.

He urged those with metal on metal hips to come forward and find out their rights through the Firm’s free legal helpline – 0800 891 331.  The firm launched a legal service called “Hip Compensation Claims” back in December offering victims free legal advice on the issue and giving clients access to experts in compensation law to get them the best possible redress:

“Clients who are victims of these dangerous hip implants have the right to demand compensation for what they’re going through. 

“If anyone is concerned they should get in touch with us as soon as possible for free advice.  The victims of this scandal deserve justice.”

Commenting on the revelation in tonight’s Newnight/BMJ investigation that despite mounting evidence of risk from metal-on-metal hips manufacturers remained silent and regulators failed to act, he said:

“This is absolutely shocking.  It asks very serious questions regarding the behaviour of manufacturers and highlights glaring failures in the regulatory regime in this country. 

“This and the PiP scandal point to a toxic trend in the regulation of medical devices in this country that needs to be addressed.  

“The number of device scandals is mounting and now is the time for answers and action.”