The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled the Zimmer hip implant because of a manufacturing mishap. Zimmer, now known as Zimmer Biomet, based in Warsaw, Indiana, has been issued a Class 1 recall, the most serious level of recall, for the M/L Taper with Kinectiv Technology hip implant. This device is part of […]
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled the Zimmer hip implant because of a manufacturing mishap. Zimmer, now known as Zimmer Biomet, based in Warsaw, Indiana, has been issued a Class 1 recall, the most serious level of recall, for the M/L Taper with Kinectiv Technology hip implant. This device is part of a modular system of femoral necks and stems able to be custom-fitted to a patient’s body. “The company found a process monitoring failure that led to higher than expected amounts of manufacturing residue left on the devices,” stated the FDA’s website.
The recall is due to a risk of metallosis, a complaint often associated with metal-on-metal hip implants. The symptoms may include skin rash, heart disease, hearing or visual impairment, kidney failure if left untreated, depression, thyroid dysfunction leading to possible weight gain, temperature sensitivity, fatigue, or neck discomfort.
“These residues can cause serious adverse health issues including allergic reactions, pain, infections, or death. Use of these products may require the need for a revision surgery to replace the affected implant,” according to the FDA.
Metal-on-metal implants may cause debilitating side effects such as pain, swelling, tissue damage, tumor growth, and possible additional surgery.
During the machining and milling, shavings from the metal can fly off and after the procedure is over, the product may still be coated with an oil-based residue. Other contaminants are microbiological and particulate debris, that, if not removed, can be problematic for the patient, according to Qmed.
Zimmer Biomet joins DePuy Synthes, OMNI, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, and Wright Medical Technology, all facing lawsuits or recalls due to defective devices.