Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Car Accidents, Medical Malpractice, Vaccine Injuries
When a hip replacement implant doesn’t work as expected—or is recalled—it can lead to severe pain, health complications, or the need for additional surgery. For many patients, learning that their device has been recalled raises difficult questions about what happens next.
This blog explains how hip implant recalls work, why some devices are removed from the market, and what patients should do if their implant is part of a recall. Whether you’re already experiencing complications or want to understand your options, knowing the facts can assist you in making accurate choices on your health and legal rights.
A medical device recall is a formal process that corrects or removes a device that may cause harm or violate safety rules. These recalls are either initiated by the manufacturer or mandated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The FDA defines a medical device recall as a correction or removal of a product that violates the laws it enforces and presents a risk to health.
In the case of hip implants, a recall may involve fixing the device, changing the labeling, or stopping sales altogether. If the implant is already in a patient’s body, it doesn’t always mean it must be removed. Sometimes, it’s safe to monitor the device rather than replace it, depending on individual risk.
Hip implants can be recalled for several reasons, often tied to product defects or safety concerns discovered after the device was implanted in patients. These problems can lead to pain, injury, or revision surgery.
Some of the most common reasons include:
Many recalled hip implants were metal-on-metal designs, which have been linked to metallosis, a condition where metallic debris builds up in the body and causes severe tissue damage.
Implants made with metal components can corrode over time, releasing particles into the bloodstream. This can trigger immune reactions, pain, tissue damage, and even permanent mobility loss if not addressed early.
The FDA oversees the recall process to ensure patient safety and hold manufacturers accountable. When a manufacturer becomes aware of a serious issue, they’re expected to recall the device and notify the FDA voluntarily. In some cases, the FDA can step in and enforce the recall directly.
Recalls are classified into three levels based on the risk to patient health:
Recall Class | Definition | Risk Level | Example in Hip Implants |
| Class I | Reasonable chance of serious health consequences or death | High | DePuy ASR hip system recall |
| Class II | May cause temporary or reversible health consequences | Moderate | Stryker Rejuvenate modular stem |
| Class III | Unlikely to cause adverse health consequences | Low | Labeling or packaging errors |
In a 2022 update, the FDA noted that “Class I recalls represent the highest risk level, demonstrating a plausible risk of mortality or significant adverse health effects.
Recalls are published in the FDA Medical Device Recall Database and listed in weekly enforcement reports to keep the public informed.
Several hip replacement systems have been removed from the market over the years. Some of the most well-known include:
According to a 2023 report from the Journal of Patient Safety, hip implant recalls increased by nearly 25% over the previous five years, primarily due to premature failure and metal toxicity risks.
These recalls have led to lawsuits from patients harmed by defective implants. While many manufacturers have agreed to settlements, legal claims vary by case. It’s essential to speak with an attorney who understands product liability law before deciding your next step.
If you learn that your hip implant is on a recall list, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. Not every recalled device must be removed. The response depends on your health, the device’s condition, and your doctor’s advice.
Here’s what you should consider:
Each situation is unique. A trusted legal team can help review your records and determine if you may qualify for a case.
Graves McLain Injury Lawyers has represented clients across Tulsa and Oklahoma who defective medical devices have harmed. If your hip replacement has been recalled and you’re dealing with pain, revision surgery, or disability, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
Our team understands how complex medical product liability cases can be. We offer legal guidance and case evaluations to help patients explore their options and take action if needed.
A recall means the device has been found to violate safety regulations. It may pose a health risk, require correction, or be removed from the market.
Not always. Your doctor may recommend monitoring, adjustments, or surgery depending on the severity and symptoms.
You can search the FDA Medical Device Recall Database or speak with your orthopedic surgeon for device details.
Common signs include pain, swelling, instability, clicking sounds, limited mobility, or signs of metal poisoning like fatigue or rashes.
You may be eligible to file a legal claim if the recalled implant caused harm. A legal review can help assess your options.
Potential damages may include medical expenses, revision surgery costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Every case is unique.
Hip implant recalls are a serious matter. While not every recall leads to removal, patients deserve to understand their options, especially when facing unexpected complications or pain. Staying informed about recalls, knowing what symptoms to watch for, and seeking early legal guidance can help protect your health and your future.
If your implant has been recalled or you suspect something is wrong, speaking with an experienced attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers can help you take the next step. Every situation is different, and the proper guidance can make all the difference in understanding your rights and pursuing justice.
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
