Exactech recalled about 1,561 Vantage Ankle Replacement Systems that were sold since 2004 because they can wear out too soon, crack or break, and require corrective surgery.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Exactech ankle replacement induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by an Exactech ankle replacement that failed or needed surgery, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Medical Device Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Exactech Vantage Ankle Replacement Recall
In February 2022, Exactech recalled about 140,000 knee and ankle replacements because they contain a polyethylene insert that can wear out prematurely. The recall involves about 1,561 units of the Vantage® Ankle Replacement Systems that were sold in the U.S. since 2016.
What is the Problem?
Exactech designed the Vantage ankle replacement system with a polyethylene insert. The problem is that the polyethylene insert was packaged in a vacuum bag that did not prevent oxygen from contacting the polyethylene insert. Over time, “oxidation can severely degrade the mechanical properties of the polyethylene insert,” according to Exactech.
What is the Risk?
Patients may suffer from severe pain, bone loss, a broken or cracked ankle replacement, or require corrective revision surgery, according to Exactech.
“In conjunction with other surgical factors, this can lead to both accelerated wear debris production and bone loss, and/or component fatigue cracking/fracture, all leading to corrective revision surgery.”
Symptoms of Ankle Replacement Failure
- New or worsening pain
- Inability to bear weight
- Grinding or other noise
- Swelling
- Instability in the ankle
What Should I Do?
Exactech is not recommending preemptive removal of a non-painful, well-functioning ankle replacement. Instead, if a patient is experiencing painful symptoms and a failed device is suspected, doctors should consider performing X-rays to evaluate the device. Patients may need to undergo revision surgery if the ankle replacement has failed.
Do I have an Exactech Ankle Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Exactech ankle replacement induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by an Exactech ankle replacement that failed or needed surgery, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Medical Device Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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