Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, Bad Faith Insurance, Car Accidents, T-Bone Tractor-Trailer Accidents, Dangerous Drugs
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall for a critical hip implant manufactured by DePuy Orthopaedics. The recall affects the LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary Component, a device used in specific hip replacement procedures. If you or someone you know received this implant, it’s essential to understand the risks, symptoms, and what steps you can take next.
This blog explains why the recall happened, the health complications associated with the device, and how patients may pursue legal options.
The DePuy LPS Dovetail Intercalary Component was created to replace damaged sections of the femur or tibia in the lower limb. It is often used in patients who have suffered bone loss due to trauma, tumors, or infection. The device connects two metal parts at a joint known as the “dovetail,” allowing surgeons to customize limb reconstruction for complex cases.
On August 1, 2013, the FDA classified the recall of the DePuy LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary Component as a Class I recall—the most serious level, indicating that use of the device may cause serious injury or death. — U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
The recall came after reports of fractures in the dovetail region. Even basic physical activity, such as walking, could cause the implant to fail. This posed a serious threat to patients, especially those weighing over 200 pounds.
The FDA recall was issued due to a design flaw in the dovetail junction. The component could break under normal load-bearing conditions. Patients did not need to be running, lifting weights, or engaging in high-impact activity for the failure to occur.
Patients over 200 pounds were found to be at a higher risk of experiencing a fracture at the dovetail junction of the implant. — FDA Device Recall Notice, 2013
When the implant fails, it can lead to severe complications:
Unfortunately, the recall does not reverse the harm already done. For patients living with the effects of a failed device, this situation can mean additional surgeries, long recovery periods, and lifelong health challenges.
Some patients may not realize their implant is failing right away. That’s why it’s essential to pay attention to symptoms that could signal a problem.
Common warning signs include:
Even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak with your orthopedic doctor. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs can help identify early signs of structural problems.
Patients harmed by defective medical devices like this DePuy implant may be able to file a product liability claim. These claims are based on the idea that medical manufacturers have a legal duty to design and produce safe products. When they fail to do so, they can be held financially responsible for the resulting harm.
A successful claim may allow you to recover compensation for:
These cases are often complex and require strong medical evidence. Working with an experienced personal injury law firm can help you build a solid case.
Class I recalls signal the FDA’s highest level of concern. These recalls involve situations where there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. — FDA Device Classification Guide.
The FDA has three recall classes. A Class I recall is the most urgent and signals the highest risk to patient safety. When a device like the DePuy LPS component falls under this category, it means the issue is severe enough to cause long-term harm or even be life-threatening
DePuy, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, was required to notify hospitals, surgeons, and distributors of the defective product. Under 21 CFR Part 806, manufacturers must also report any corrections or removals to the FDA when a medical device may cause harm.
Complication | Description |
| Implant Fracture | Structural failure at the dovetail connection |
| Severe Pain | Ongoing discomfort around the hip or leg |
| Neurovascular Damage | Injury to surrounding nerves or blood vessels |
| Infection | Risk due to device breakage or revision surgery |
| Limb Loss | Amputation required in rare but severe failure cases |
| Mandatory Revision Surgery | Surgery needed to remove or replace the faulty component |
If you’ve been affected by the DePuy hip implant recall, Graves McLain Injury Lawyers may be able to help you explore your legal rights. Our team has represented individuals across Oklahoma in medical product liability cases and understands the difficulties that follow after a device failure.
We take time to listen, explain your options, and gather the records and documentation needed for a strong claim. While every case is unique, having a team on your side that understands the law and the medical system can make a difference.
It is the most serious recall issued by the FDA, used when a product may cause serious injury or death.
Patients should contact their orthopedic surgeon or hospital records department to verify the device implanted during surgery.
Watch for sudden hip pain, difficulty walking, swelling, or unusual leg movement. Medical imaging may be needed for diagnosis.
Legal eligibility often depends on documented injuries. However, early legal advice can help protect your rights if complications develop.
The manufacturer, DePuy Orthopaedics (a Johnson & Johnson company), may be held accountable under product liability law.
Medical records, surgery dates, implant model details, and any postoperative complications should be collected and shared with your attorney.
The DePuy LPS hip implant recall is a reminder of how complex and risky medical device failures can be. If you or a loved one has suffered complications from a recalled implant, don’t delay seeking medical and legal help. Acting early can protect your health and help secure the support you may need for recovery.
Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is here to support Oklahomans impacted by faulty medical products. We offer a free consultation to help you understand your options—no pressure, just answers.
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.
