Equinoxe Shoulder Systems Device Degradation or Malfunction Lawsuit Lawyers

How To Obtain Full Compensation For Equinoxe Shoulder Systems Device Degradation or Malfunction Post-Implantation

The Equinoxe Shoulder System joint replacement devices, manufactured by Exactech between 2004 and August 2021, have been flagged by the FDA due to potential health hazards stemming from defective packaging. These devices, packaged in faulty bags lacking crucial oxygen barrier layers, pose significant risks such as accelerated device wear, fracture, failure, and associated complications like pain, bone loss, and swelling.

If you or a loved one has suffered Equinoxe Shoulder Systems device degradation or malfunction post-implantation, it’s crucial to understand how to obtain full compensation for your losses. Parker Waichman LLP, a top-rated national product liability law firm has recovered over $2 billion in compensation for our clients who have been injured or lost loved ones due to defective products.

Parker Waichman LLP is offering free consultations and is currently representing claimants in Equinoxe Shoulder Systems lawsuits throughout the United States. These lawsuits seek to recover compensation for those harmed by device degradation or malfunction that has caused severe complications, including injuries, impairment, and corrective surgery. Contact us today at 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529) to discuss your situation and learn more about how we can help you obtain the economic compensation your case deserves.

What Are Exactech Equinoxe Shoulder Systems?

The Equinoxe Shoulder System is a series of medical devices designed for shoulder joint replacement procedures, primarily aimed at alleviating pain and improving function in patients suffering from conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and structural deformities. Developed by Exactech, these systems have been utilized in adult patients experiencing significant shoulder joint deterioration or failure, either as a result of degenerative diseases or previous unsuccessful joint replacement surgeries.

The Equinoxe Shoulder Systems consist of various components, including humeral heads, glenoid components, stems, and other associated instruments, allowing orthopedic surgeons to tailor the implantation process according to each patient’s specific needs and anatomical characteristics. These systems are engineered to mimic the natural movement and function of the shoulder joint, restoring mobility and enhancing overall quality of life for individuals suffering from debilitating shoulder conditions.

One of the key features of the Equinoxe Shoulder Systems is their versatility and adaptability to different patient anatomies and pathologies. With a range of sizes, configurations, and surgical techniques available, orthopedic surgeons can select the most appropriate components to optimize surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Additionally, the Equinoxe Shoulder Systems incorporate advanced materials and design principles to promote long-term durability and stability, essential factors in ensuring the success of shoulder replacement procedures.

The U.S. FDA Issues a Safety Communication

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a safety communication on January 16, 2024, regarding potential health risks associated with the Equinoxe Shoulder System joint replacement devices manufactured by Exactech between 2004 and August 2021. These devices were packaged in defective bags, which could lead to oxidation of the plastic components over time, posing risks such as device wear, fracture, failure, pain, bone loss, swelling, and the need for revision surgery.

Patients with well-functioning Equinoxe Shoulder Systems and no symptoms are not recommended to undergo surgery. However, those experiencing pain, swelling, arm weakness, or unusual noises around the implanted device should contact their healthcare provider. Health care providers are advised not to implant any Equinoxe Shoulder Systems packaged in defective bags and to monitor patients for potential device-related issues, considering X-rays if device failure is suspected.

Equinoxe Shoulder System implants are used in adults to replace painful shoulder joints due to various conditions, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Defective packaging, missing an oxygen barrier layer, can allow oxygen to contact the plastic components before implantation, leading to oxidation and subsequent complications.

Patients experiencing problems with their devices are encouraged to report them through the FDA’s MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form. The Unique Device Identifier (UDI) system helps identify individual medical devices, facilitating more accurate reporting and analysis of adverse events. An affected device can be identified by checking the UDI on its label.

Despite the FDA’s alert, Exactech has not initiated a voluntary recall for the affected implants. The FDA continues to collaborate with Exactech and international regulatory agencies to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of joint replacement devices containing plastic components packaged in defective bags. Updates will be provided as significant information becomes available.

The Product Liability Lawsuit Process

Initiating a product liability lawsuit can be a complex and multi-faceted endeavor, especially when seeking compensation for injuries or damages caused by defective medical devices like the Equinoxe Shoulder System. Understanding the steps involved in the legal process is crucial for individuals and families pursuing such claims.

1. Case Evaluation: The first step in the product liability lawsuit process is the initial case evaluation. This involves consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in product liability cases, such as Parker Waichman LLP. During the evaluation, the attorney will review the details of the case, including the nature of the injuries or damages suffered, medical records, and evidence of the defect.
2. Investigation: Once the attorney agrees to take on the case, they will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence supporting the claim. This may include obtaining medical records, conducting interviews with witnesses, consulting experts in relevant fields, and analyzing documentation related to the Equinoxe Shoulder System and its defect.
3. Filing the Complaint: After completing the investigation and determining that there are grounds for a lawsuit, the attorney will file a complaint on behalf of the plaintiff (the injured party) against the defendant (the manufacturer of the defective product). The complaint outlines the allegations against the defendant and the legal basis for seeking compensation.
4. Discovery Phase: Following the filing of the complaint, both parties engage in the discovery phase, during which they exchange information and evidence relevant to the case. This may involve written interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and depositions of witnesses.
5. Pre-Trial Motions: Prior to trial, the parties may file various pre-trial motions with the court. These motions can address issues such as the admissibility of evidence, the dismissal of certain claims or parties, or other procedural matters.
6. Settlement Negotiations: Throughout the litigation process, there may be opportunities for settlement negotiations between the parties. In some cases, the defendant may offer a settlement to resolve the case without going to trial. The plaintiff’s attorney will negotiate on their behalf to reach a fair and equitable settlement agreement.
7. Trial: If the case does not settle, it will proceed to trial. During the trial, both sides present evidence and arguments to a judge and/or jury, who will ultimately decide the outcome of the case. The trial process can be lengthy and involves various stages, including jury selection, opening statements, presentation of evidence, witness testimony, and closing arguments.
8. Verdict and Appeal: Following the trial, the judge or jury will render a verdict determining whether the defendant is liable for the plaintiff’s injuries or damages. If the plaintiff prevails, they may be awarded compensation for their losses. However, either party has the right to appeal the verdict if they believe legal errors were made during the trial.

Navigating a product liability lawsuit can be challenging, but with the assistance of experienced legal counsel, individuals harmed by defective medical devices like the Equinoxe Shoulder System can pursue the compensation they deserve for their injuries and damages.

Potential Compensation for Equinoxe Shoulder System Complications

In light of complications arising from defective Equinoxe Shoulder System joint replacement devices, individuals affected and families who have been harmed by these defects are retaining Parker Waichman LLP to file product liability lawsuits. These lawsuits aim to secure fair and just monetary compensation for those impacted by the adverse effects of the recalled devices. Recovering from cardiac events linked to the faulty Equinoxe Shoulder Systems often require a numerous interventions, such as surgery, lifestyle adjustments, therapy, and medications. Consequently, individuals harmed by the recalled devices may be eligible to pursue compensation for a range of damages associated with electrode fractures, including:

• Loss of future earnings resulting from the inability to return to work.
• Lost wages due to time away from employment.
• Accumulated medical bills.
• Pain and suffering.
• Prescription drug expenses.
• Costs associated with therapy and physical rehabilitation.
• Mental anguish endured.
• Various other economic and non-economic expenses and losses.
• Punitive damages. In some cases, a plaintiff may be awarded punitive damages.

Initiating a lawsuit related to the Equinoxe Shoulder System joint replacement device offers a pathway to potentially alleviate financial burdens and cover additional medical care costs. If you or a loved one has been adversely affected by a defective Equinoxe Shoulder System, our legal team stands ready to assist you in pursuing full compensation for your losses.

Why Select Parker Waichman for Your Legal Representation?

Parker Waichman has garnered a sterling reputation for its prowess in litigating against major pharmaceutical companies, ensuring that your legal rights are safeguarded when you entrust your case to our firm.

Here are some recent highlights of our achievements:

• Over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements secured for our valued clients.
• Recognition with the esteemed “AV Preeminent” rating following a peer review conducted by Martindale-Hubbell.
• Attainment of the esteemed “5 Dragons” rating by Lawdragon, denoting our highest accolade as determined through peer assessment.

Parker Waichman is dedicated to hearing your story and evaluating the merits of your potential claim. Should we have the opportunity to represent you or your loved one, be assured that the same level of dedication, resources, and expertise that have bolstered our firm’s standing will be applied to your case.

Have you or someone you care about experienced harm due to a recalled Equinoxe Shoulder System?