Dinkes & Schwitzer is currently conducting
an investigation into allegations concerning the one of the world's
leading makers of medical devices. Sulzer Medica Ltd. is headquartered
in Winterthur (Switzerland) and has a presence in the United States.
Sulzer develops, manufacturers and markets medical implants used
primarily for orthopedic applications.
Of the estimated 160,000 hip
replacement surgeries done every year, Sulzer provides approximately
12% of
the implants used. In October 1999, reports of defective hip implants
become known to Sulzer. Reports indicate that patients experienced
a loosening of the implant because of lubricant residue that is
used during manufacturing. It appears that the residue may cause
a reaction in the patient’s body whereby bone is prevented
from bonding with the implant.
Sulzer Orthopedics announced a recall
of its Inter-Op acetubular shell for hip implants in December 2000.
Approximately 17,500 defective parts were used for patient implants
throughout the U.S. Following this recall, Sulzer changed its manufacturing
process so that the lubricant residue is no longer present.
A patient
fitted with a Sulzer implant during hip replacement surgey may see
the following symptoms up
to 6 weeks after surgery:
progressing well or reporting groin or
anterior trochanteric pain
increased thigh pain
significant
startup pain with ambulation (walking), to rising from a seated
position, and may have buttock pain
x-ray may show possible
component migration 6 weeks to 3 months after hip replacement
surgery
patient may experience significant pain with
weight bearing, and may require a cane or crutch
patient
may be unable to exert resistance in a straight raised leg
test and
a side-lying abduction test
Contact us if you or a family member have received a Sulzer hip
implant and would like more information concerning your legal rights,
please contact us.
Put
proven injury lawyers on your side. Contact Dinkes & Schwitzer
at 1-800-933-1212 for your free legal consultation.
