Exactech, a prominent medical device company, has recently issued a sweeping recall of all its knee, ankle, and hip replacement implant systems manufactured after 2004. This recall was prompted by the discovery of a packaging defect that was causing the premature degradation of the polyethylene insert component.
The consequences of this packaging defect have been severe, with numerous Exactech knee implants failing prematurely. This unfortunate outcome has necessitated and will continue to necessitate corrective surgery for many affected patients.
For patients who have undergone knee surgery and received an Exactech knee implant that has subsequently failed, resulting in the need for revision surgery, legal recourse may be available to them in the form of a lawsuit.
This recall primarily pertains to all knee replacement and ankle replacement implant systems produced after 2004. We’ll explore the specifics of this recall, its impact on patients, and essential information regarding legal options for those affected.
Here are some key details to help you understand this recall:
The Recalled Exactech Products
The recall encompasses all Exactech knee replacement and ankle replacement implant systems manufactured after 2004. These systems include the OPTETRAK®, OPTETRAK Logic®, TRULIANT®, and VANTAGE® product lines.
The Cause of the Recall
Patients who received the Exactech knee replacement implant impacted by the manufacturing defect have reported severe pain and reduced mobility in their knees. This defect causes premature degradation of the polyethylene insert component, leading to excessive wear and friction over time. As a consequence, affected patients may require revision surgery to replace the failed implant with a new one, which can be a painful and costly procedure.
Impact on Patients
The manufacturing defect in Exactech knee replacement systems resulted in significant pain and mobility issues for patients who experienced failure. The degraded polyethylene inserts in the knee replacement system led to excessive friction and wear, resulting in the premature failure of the implant. Patients with the failed implant had to undergo corrective revision surgery, an invasive and painful procedure, which led to a loss of mobility and an inability to perform everyday tasks, significantly affecting their quality of life.
What Patients with Recalled Exactech Implants Should Do
If you have an Exactech knee or ankle replacement implant system and experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, inability to bear weight on the joint, grinding in the joint, or instability in the knee or ankle, you should consult your doctor immediately. Surgeons are instructed to take X-rays when a failed implant is suspected to evaluate the status of the Exactech implant.
Exactech's Response
Exactech promptly sent out a letter to doctors instructing them to discontinue the use of Exactech implants in knee and ankle replacement surgeries. Doctors and hospitals were also directed to return their existing inventory of recalled devices for replacement. Exactech additionally provided doctors with a draft letter to send to their patients, explaining the basis for the Exactech recall.
Legal Options for Patients
Patients who have endured the agony of an Exactech knee replacement system failure due to this manufacturing flaw may possess the legal grounds to initiate a lawsuit seeking financial recompense for their pain and medical expenses. Numerous patients have already taken the step to pursue legal action with the support of our adept lawyers, and experts in medical device litigation.
It’s crucial to recognize that manufacturers of medical devices, such as Exactech, carry a legal duty to guarantee the safety and absence of detrimental defects in their products when utilized for their intended purpose.The recall notice for Exactech knee and ankle replacement implants essentially acknowledges that they were defective. This makes it easier to hold Exactech liable for injuries and damages resulting from these defects in a product liability lawsuit, as compared to a typical class action lawsuit.
If you received an Exactech knee replacement implant after 2004, and it subsequently failed, resulting in revision surgery, you may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit. A successful lawsuit could entitle you to damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses associated with treatment and revision surgery, and any lost income or wages due to the implant’s failure.
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If you have been affected by the Exactech knee implant recall, safeguarding your rights is of paramount importance. Seeking counsel from an experienced attorney can provide you with the insight needed to comprehend your legal avenues and take the essential measures to file a claim. Our legal team has a demonstrated history of achieving substantial settlements for clients in comparable cases.
Latest Updates
Exactech Lawsuit Updates October 23, 2023
A video status conference for the Exactech class action lawsuit is scheduled for December 20, 2023, at 2:30 PM, with Magistrate Judge Marcia M. Henry presiding via Zoom. It appears that this litigation is progressing at a pace that may not be as swift as some plaintiffs would prefer.
Exactech Lawsuit Updates October 17, 2023
The Exactech implant recall MDL has seen a substantial increase in cases over the past month, with 184 new cases added, bringing the total count of pending cases to 842. This growth is notable, as just a few months ago, in June, there were only 391 pending cases, indicating a significant expansion of the MDL over the summer.
Exactech Lawsuit Updates October 10, 2023
According to a joint status report submitted by the parties involved in the Exactech MDL, there are currently 984 cases pending. Of these, 811 cases pertain to knee products, 164 to hip products, and 9 to ankle products. In addition to the federal MDL, 327 cases are pending in Florida state courts, encompassing 233 knee and 90 hip products.
Exactech Lawsuit Updates September 10, 2023
In an intriguing turn of events, all parties engaged in the legal proceedings have jointly submitted a rather unique motion. They are seeking relief from the rapid scheduling order and the upcoming bellwether trial. This motion contains an interesting reference to one of Exactech’s defense attorneys, who discussed the size of the company and implied that the scheduling order should take this into account. It’s worth noting that Exactech is far from a small enterprise, with market analysts estimating its market capitalization to be in the range of $4 billion to $6 billion. This motion raises questions about the company’s intentions in managing the tempo of the ongoing litigation.
Exactech Lawsuit Updates September 18, 2023
The Exactech class action MDL, concerning recalled joint implants, has gained momentum during the summer months. The MDL now includes 658 pending cases, with 267 new cases transferred into the MDL over the summer. This doubling in size over a relatively short period underscores the growing scope of the litigation.
FAQs
A: The Exactech knee lawsuit is a legal action brought against Exactech, a medical device company, for manufacturing and selling defective knee replacement devices that have caused serious injuries to patients.
A: Absolutely, you can potentially pursue a legal claim even if you've been implanted with an Exactech knee device that hasn't been officially recalled. It's important to discuss your specific circumstances with a legal professional to explore your options fully.
A: The compensation available in an Exactech knee lawsuit can vary, depending on the unique details of your case. This may encompass covering your medical expenses, lost wages, the physical and emotional distress you've endured, and other related costs.
A: The time limit for initiating a lawsuit, often referred to as the statute of limitations, can differ by state. It's crucial to reach out to us promptly to discuss your legal options and any time constraints that may apply.
A: We connect you with experienced attorneys who can thoroughly assess your case, compile necessary evidence, handle the required legal documentation, engage in negotiations with the opposing party and their insurance providers, and vigorously advocate for your rights in a court of law. Our commitment is to provide personalized and effective legal representation, ensuring you have the opportunity to seek the compensation you rightfully deserve.
A: If you or a loved one has been affected by an Exactech knee implant, please visit our website for a complimentary consultation. Our team will connect you with seasoned attorneys who can meticulously review your case, address your inquiries, and guide you through the available legal pathways.
