Thousands of patients have been affected by the Exactech recall, a significant issue for those with joint replacement surgery. The recall includes knee and ankle replacement implant systems, highlighting the need for vigilance among patients and surgeons. When a medical device fails, it can lead to a range of side effects, from mild discomfort to severe health complications. This article aims to clearly understand these potential side effects, helping you recognize and address them promptly. Understanding the risks associated with defective joint replacements is crucial for your well-being and quality of life.
Mass Tort America understands the complexities and the distress caused by such recalls. Our firm is dedicated to assisting patients nationwide who have been impacted by defective medical devices. With a specialized concierge team, we aim to streamline your legal process and ensure you receive the support and compensation you deserve.
Understanding The Exactech Knee Replacement System Recall
Exactech has a corporate headquarters in Gainsburg, Florida. Since its inception in 1985, Exactech has focused on surgery, implants, and joint replacements. Exactech announced in August 2019 it would voluntarily cancel all of its Exactech knee implants manufactured after 2004. Almost 150,000 knee implant replacements have been sold worldwide. The Exactech implant system was designed as a surgical technique for knee replacement surgery known as TKA. TKA knee replacements can be used for the relief of arthritis symptoms and to repair knee trauma or sprains.
Exactech expanded the Hip Replacement Devices Recall program in August 2022 and now includes devices made from plastic components that are in defective boxes. It was also classed as class II recalled on 10 September 2020.
The Exactech recall involves several models of hip replacement devices, knee replacement devices, and ankle replacements devices that have been found to have issues with their plastic components. These components are critical as they act as the cushion within the joint replacement. Over time, if these parts degrade prematurely, they can lead to various complications. These complications range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the degradation and the patient’s overall health.
Mild side effects often include localized pain and swelling around the joint. This discomfort can be persistent, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life. Many patients report an increase in pain during activities that put stress on the joint, such as walking or climbing stairs.
More serious side effects involve loosening of the joint replacement, which can lead to instability and difficulty in movement. In some cases, the degraded components can cause inflammation and infection in the surrounding tissues. This not only exacerbates pain but can also lead to more severe medical interventions if not addressed promptly.
Exactech Class Action June 2024 Update
Two more cases were incorporated into Exactech implant recall lawsuits. It marks the second consecutive month where fewer new cases are reported. The Exactech implant recall MDL currently contains 1,226 cases involving knee products, 1,300 cases involving hip products, and 277 cases involving ankles.
The lawsuit by Exactech is currently under trial in Vermont and Miami. During the alleged incident, Davis had to undergo bilateral knee replacement surgery in New York. OpteTrak device implants are now available for each knee. Eventually, the device was recalled. After surgery, Plaintiff had tibial injection problems that led to knee and ankle instability due to tibial implant failure. Throughout 2023 he underwent two surgeries to reposition the defective hip and knee joints.
Exactech Knee Replacement Implant Lawsuits
Medical device manufacturers such as Exactech must make the product safe when used for their intended use and without causing any damage or defects. Exactech claims the Exactech knee or ankle replacement is defective according to retraction. So holding Exactech in a class action lawsuit is less difficult to prove than in an ordinary lawsuit. Patients with knee replacement implants in 2004 could file suit if it failed or require revision surgery if this procedure failed.
Exactech lawsuits have been filed by many patients who argue that they have suffered through, or could soon face, challenging and risky operations to replace defective implants that failed. Exactech lawyers are representing plaintiffs in these lawsuits, seeking financial compensation for those adversely impacted by defective Exactech implant systems.
Exactech extended its recall to include Optetrak, Logic, and Truliant knee and ankle replacements in defective bags no longer available in stores.
Ron Irby had an Optetrak artificial knee implanted in his right leg in September 2018. Most implants last 15 years or more, but Irby’s Optetrak knee implant, made by Exactech in Gainesville, Florida, wore out in 2021, according to a lawsuit he filed against the company.
Mild Side Effects Of Exactech Recall
For many patients, the initial signs of a problematic joint replacement can be mild. These include persistent pain around the implant site. Pain may increase during physical activity or after prolonged periods of inactivity. Swelling and tenderness around the joint can also be common, leading to discomfort in performing everyday tasks.
Another mild side effect can be reduced range of motion. Patients might find it challenging to fully extend or bend the affected joint. This limitation can affect not only physical activities but also routine movements like sitting down or standing up.
In some cases, patients experience audible clicking or grinding noises from the joint. These sounds are usually due to the misalignment or degradation of the joint components. While these noises might not always indicate severe problems, they should not be ignored, as they could signal worsening conditions.
Serious Side Effects Of Exactech Recall
The oxidation significantly degraded the polyethylene of the inserts after packaging, impairing the ability of the inserts to function correctly in the knee replacement system. Over time, the impaired polyethylene inserts caused excessive friction and wear, triggering the premature failures of the Exactech knee replacement systems. Early failure of the Exactech knee replacement system due to this manufacturing defect can devastate patients. Implant failure causes significant daily knee pain, swelling, and lack of mobility in the knee. Eventually, patients who experience implant failures must undergo corrective revision surgery.
Serious side effects from Exactech recalls can significantly impact a patient’s life. One of the most concerning issues is the loosening of the joint replacement devices. This occurs when the degraded plastic components cause the joint to become unstable. Patients might feel the joint giving way, which can lead to falls and further injuries.
Additionally, the tibial tray, which fits into the shin bone, has been reported to be fragile, leading to early failures of the knee implants. This fragility can cause significant pain and necessitate revision surgery.
Infection is another serious complication. As the plastic components wear down, they can cause inflammation, which might lead to an infection in the joint area. Symptoms of infection include severe pain, redness, and warmth around the joint, often accompanied by fever. Infections require immediate medical attention to prevent further health risks.
In the most severe cases, patients might need to undergo corrective revision surgery. This involves removing the defective joint replacement and implanting a new one. Revision surgeries are often more complex and risky than the initial procedure. They require longer recovery times and can lead to additional complications, including further infections or bone loss.
Preventive Measures And Monitoring
Exactech contacted physicians in the wake of the recall. This letter explains how to stop using implants for joint replacement surgery without further explanation. The hospital’s current recalled equipment must now be returned as a replacement for the new equipment. In terms of letters, it’s quite honest. Exactech jumped onto the sword and admitted the problems. In a recall letter, the surgeons of patients undergoing surgical procedures should consult their medical providers. The physician is advised to keep track of every patient receiving implants with the Exactech implant to identify signs that the implant could fail.
Patients with Exactech implants need to be vigilant in monitoring their condition. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to detect early signs of complications. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, can help in identifying issues with joint replacement before they become severe.
Engaging in low-impact exercises can help maintain joint health and reduce stress on the replacement. Activities such as swimming or cycling are recommended over high-impact sports that can accelerate wear and tear on the implant device. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the pressure on the joints, minimizing the risk of complications.
It is also crucial to report any new symptoms to your doctor immediately. Early intervention can prevent mild issues from escalating into severe complications. Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms and any changes in your condition can aid your healthcare provider in managing your treatment effectively.
Why Choose Mass Tort America For Your Case?
At Mass Tort America, we understand the challenges faced by patients affected by the Exactech recall. Our experienced team is committed to helping you navigate the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your suffering and medical expenses. We provide comprehensive legal support, from initial consultations to court representations.
We take pride in our dedicated concierge team, which coordinates all aspects of your case, from medical appointments to legal documentation. Our nationwide reach ensures that no matter where you are, we can provide the necessary assistance. Contact us today at 800-356-4338 or through our contact form at https://masstortamerica.com/contact/ to start your journey toward justice and relief.
