Stryker Hip Settlement Enrollment Deadline Extended

Stryker Hip Settlement Enrollment Deadline Extended

The deadline for hip implant recipients to enroll in the Stryker Orthopaedics Rejuvenate Hip System settlement has been extended to March 30, 2015. Patients who received a recalled ABG II Modular Hip System or Rejuvenate Modular Hip System still have time to register with the settlement.

In June 2012, Stryker voluntarily recalled the ABG II and Rejuvenate Modular Hip Systems because of a high early failure rate and increased risks of metallosis. In November 2014, Stryker announced it had set aside $1.45 billion to compensate patients who received one of its recalled hip devices. Patients who had one hip implant removed prior to November 3, 2014 are eligible for $300,000; patients who had both hips implanted and removed will receive $600,000. Patients with more serious injuries or who required multiple surgeries could receive more than the base amount. The settlement also includes implant patients not able to have the hip(s) removed because a doctor deemed them unable to undergo surgery.

In hip implants such as the ABGII and Rejuvenate, when the hip’s metal components rub together during movement they create minute metallic debris that can enter the patient’s bloodstream and damage tissue and muscle, the New York Times has reported. In addition to metallic debris in the bloodstream, lawsuits filed by recipients of the recalled hips allege injuries including pain, loosening of the joint, hip dislocation, difficulty walking, and cysts around the joint. Many of the patients have undergone additional surgeries to remove and replace metal hips with safer models.

Patients who choose not register for the settlement may still be able to pursue legal action against Stryker.

Read more at: www.www.yourlawyer.com/articles/title/justice-department-extends-biomet-probation-in-bribery-case