DePuy knee replacement fractures can occur during normal walking activities. When the DePuy LPS knee replacement components were recalled in February and July 2013, experts warned that a sudden fracture could cause loss of limb function, amputation of the limb, severe infection, and even death. Individuals who contact our defective medical device lawyers may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and more.
Class 1 DePuy LPS Implant Recall
August 1, 2013 — DePuy has recalled another component of the Limb Preservation System (LPS) — the LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary component can fracture under normal loads. Click here to read more.
DePuy LPS Knee Replacement Fracture
DePuy Orthopedics Inc., a subsidiary company of Johnson & Johnson, recalled the LPS knee replacement after receiving 6 reports of fracture and 4 reports of loosening. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a Safety Communication about the risk of DePuy knee replacement fracture in February 2013.
Symptoms of a Knee Replacement Fracture
DePuy knee replacement fracture is a very serious, life-threatening, and excruciatingly painful complication. Symptoms typically appear suddenly, when the knee becomes very swollen, tender, and discolored. The patient will not be able to extend the leg, walk, or move without pain.
DePuy knee replacement fracture symptoms could include:
- Pain
- Abnormal appearance of the knee
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Discoloration of the knee
- Instability of the knee
- Abnormal sound when the knee moves (clicking, popping, grinding, or scraping)
- Bleeding (in some cases)
What Causes DePuy Knee Replacement Fracture?
DePuy has recalled components of the Limb Preservation System (LPS). It is believed that fractures are caused by a weak component that cannot support the weight of some patients during normal walking activities. The following components have been recalled:
- LPS Diaphyseal Sleeve: This “sleeve” attaches the patient’s femur to the knee implant with a tapered connection joint. Unfortunately, this joint can fracture or loosen during normal gait activities.
- LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary component: Recalled in July 2013.
Complications of Knee Replacement Fracture
According to the official knee replacement Safety Communication from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration:
“There is a reasonable probability that use of these products will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Complications of knee replacement fracture include:
- Pain and suffering
- Infection
- Loss of leg function
- Amputation of the leg
- Permanent decreased mobility
- Soft-tissue damage
- Death
Treatment for a Knee Replacement Fracture
Revision surgery will be necessary for patients who suffer a knee replacement fracture. This surgery will remove and replace the defective implant with another device. Unfortunately, revision surgery carries a serious risk of complications — especially if the fractured device caused infection or soft-tissue damage. Furthermore, the surgery may be expensive, debilitating, and require months of recovery time.
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