.png)
Birmingham Exactech Recall Information & Lawsuit Lawyers
Exactech Issues Recall for Knee, Ankle, and Hip Implant Products
When you receive a medical implant, you expect to be made better, not worse. If the device that was supposed to heal injures you, the manufacturers should be held responsible for any subpar conduct that led to the product failure.
Hundreds of thousands of knee, ankle, and hip implant products have been recalled by Exactech, Inc. due to serious health risks for patients.
Patients who received the defective Exactech implants may be exposed to premature wear of the device components, which can present serious problems. These include pain, compromised joint functioning, bone loss, and other symptoms, often requiring corrective surgery.
Affected products include:
- Exactech Optetrak Knee Replacement
- Exactech Optetrak Logic Knee Implant
- Exactech Truliant Knee Replacement
- Exactech Connexion GXL Hip Implant Liner
- Exactech Vantage Ankle Implants
The health risks these defective implants present are unacceptable. When it comes to something as precious to you as your own body, you expect only the safest, most rigorously tested and manufactured implant products and materials to be used.
If you or a loved one were injured by an Exactech implant you may be entitled to a legal claim. Contact an injury lawyer at Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann at (205) 322-8880 for a free consultation. Read on to learn more about the issues associated with these products.
Why Is the Exactech Knee Implant Being Recalled?
Exactech has recalled hundreds of thousands of its knee and ankle implants. The company recently issued letters to patients who have received their ankle implant products (years 2017-2022) and knee implant products (years 2004-2022).
During a review of their manufacturing process, Exactech determined that one of the packaging layers for the implant insert was out of specification. This can allow oxygen to diffuse into the plastic insert before it is implanted into the knee or ankle. If enough oxygen diffuses into the piece before insertion, it can lead to oxidation.
Oxidation can then cause the plastic implant part to wear out earlier or become damaged after implantation into the patient’s body.
Normal plastic implant inserts are smooth and clean; however, oxidated inserts retrieved from patients’ bodies have been found to be rough and worn, thus compromising the structure and action of the entire implant. Certain Exactech products may be 3 to 7 times more likely to fail compared with other knee replacement systems.
How Do I Know if an Exactech Knee or Ankle Implant Has Failed?
Oxidated Exactech knee or ankle inserts can cause symptoms such as:
- New or worsening swelling of the knee or ankle implant site
- Pain while walking or moving
- Compromised ability to bear weight
- Grinding or other noises
- Joint instability
- Clicking of the knee or ankle
If you have had an Exactech total knee or ankle replacement are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be a sign that your product was affected by the oxidation issue. If so, contact a lawyer at (205) 322-8880 for further advice on how to pursue a claim.
Exactech knee or ankle implant issues may require the need for additional surgery (called “revision surgery”) to correct the defective part. This can cause additional medical expenses, more time off of work for recovery, and other challenges requiring legal action.
Why Is the Exactech Hip Implant Being Recalled?
Exactech Connexion GXL hip liners have been associated with early deterioration. The liner is inserted into the cup of the hip socket so it can interact with other Exactech hip replacement components. Early wear of the hip implant liner may lead to osteolysis of the femur bone and hip socket.
Osteolysis is a progressive condition where bone tissue is destroyed. During this process, bones lose calcium and other minerals and soften, degenerate, and eventually become weaker and brittle.
Thus, the Exactech hip implant defect can seriously damage the patient’s hip joint, resulting in the need for corrective revision surgery. Studies have characterized the damage as “extreme” and “catastrophic” and can happen in an average of five years after surgery. In some cases, the damage occurred less than a year after the product was implanted.
Each patient is different, and various factors may contribute to or affect the wearing of the hip implant liner. Medical information also indicates that increased activity may be connected with the implant failure.
How Do I Know if an Exactech Hip Implant Liner Has Failed?
The following symptoms may be an indication that the Exactech Connexion GXL hip implant liner has failed:
- Stiffness of the muscles in the area
- Hip pain
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty standing, walking, or sitting
- Weakening or loosening of the hip joint
- Destruction or loss of bone tissue
These types of injuries are serious and can completely change a person’s life experience. If you are experiencing any of these conditions or symptoms, seek medical attention immediately, and get in touch with an attorney who can further advise you on your next steps.
How Do I Join the Exactech Recall Lawsuit?
Injuries from a medical implant can be painful and can limit your ability to go about your daily life as you please. If you or a loved one believe you were injured due to an Exactech knee, ankle, or hip implant, there are several steps you should take.
Following these steps can help you prepare the proper materials for your claim. If you are unsure of what to do or how to gather these, a defective medical device lawyer can provide you with assistance.
To verify that you have a defective Exactech implant, you should compile the following information:
- The date of your joint replacement surgery
- The name of the surgeon who performed your joint replacement operation
- The serial number of your implant device (a claim can still be initiated if you have troubles locating this)
The serial number of the implant can be found in your medical records. You can also look up the serial number of your implant at https://recall.exac.com/.
In addition, it is tremendously helpful to make a written document of your injury and the timeline of how it happened. Make a note of:
- When and why you received the original implant
- When you started noticing pain or other symptoms
- What effect the symptoms have had on you (unable to walk, work, etc.)
It is also possible to speak with an Exactech representative through their helpline at (888) 912-0403. However, to protect your own interests, it is highly recommended that you contact a lawyer beforehand. They can advise you on the process, and if you are unable to do so yourself, they can continue preparations on your behalf.
How Can I Contact a Defective Medical Implant Lawyer?
Being injured by a medical implant product can present a host of challenges and problems on top of your original medical condition. Manufacturers of these products should be held to high standards when it comes to patient safety. Pursuing legal action can help put you on the path toward recovery and greater peace of mind.
However, these types of cases can be complex, and typically require the assistance of a lawyer. If you were injured by an Exactech product, get in touch with us at (205) 322-8880 for a no-obligation consultation. We will review your case and guide you towards the next course of action.
What Do Our Clients Say?
Ruth Weakley
I highly recommend this law firm. I was always kept informed of any progress in my case. Any time I called them my concerns were met. Attorney Jon Mann was always very through in his responses. I can't thank this law firm for taking excellent care of my case.
Lee Huffstutler
Outstanding firm! Extremely pleased with the service, consistency & hard work of the firm as a whole and Michael Bradley as my representative.
Without a doubt, I would recommend anyone who is in need of a personal injury attorney to give Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann a call - good people that strive to look after your interests. Thanks for all you have done!
Larry Smith
I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. Initially I mostly spoke to Rebecca & she made me feel very comfortable in a stressful situation. Later many of my calls were with Jon Mann & he also spoke to me with respect & thoughtfulness. Kind of strange but a close bond between lawyers & a client but not only did we discuss the matter at hand but we would discuss our personal lives & the good & bad going on in my life & their concern for my health was comforting. I would definitely recommend this firm! Keep up the great work guys.
Doris M.
I feel very fortunate to have met this firm. During the first conference, my attorney made me feel totally at ease when sharing my situation with him. He has a way about him that makes you feel his sincerity and honesty. Thank you for taking my burden and for the wonderful job that you did to complete my case successfully. I am VERY PLEASED!
Cathye H.
My case was one that was a part of a nationwide claim. I researched and prayed for the appropriate attorney and I found that in Mike Bradley. While my case lasted, Mike and his assistant Karen stayed current and knowledgeable on the status and updates. I never once called or emailed that one of them didn't respond to me immediately. Mike would call to answer an email because he felt it would be more personal and efficient than typing. I highly recommend this firm.
Tyna B.
I would like to express my gratitude to Mr. Jon Mann of Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann. I am so grateful for your knowledge, passion, dedication, and professionalism you have exhibited through this entire ordeal. Mr. Jon Mann took in all the relevant information, analyzed it and created a plan to settle my case. Again, I value the help you've given me. Thank you!!
Emily W.
I was very pleased with the work that Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann did for us. I had been injured in a car accident and was in quite a bit of pain for sometime. They always treated me like a person and not a case—never failed to return a call and kept us apprised of what was going on. I had a time when I had to be totally focused on recovery, they were able to take care of the situation and I didn’t have to worry about it. I owe this firm a lot of thanks.
Luxi Choi
Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann prides themselves on hard work and proven results.They earnestly work to provide the best outcomes for their clients. It's truly been an honor to work with them.
Andre Madison
Skilled attorneys that are extremely knowledgeable of the Law. There friendly staff and environment helps you in any way that they can. I would highly recommend this firm! And Attorney Austin Whitten.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Exactech products were recalled?
Exactech, Inc. is an orthopedic device company headquartered in Gainesville, Florida. It has recently come to the company’s attention that significant health risks have been associated with certain implant products.
Affected products include:
- Exactech Optetrak Knee Replacement
- Exactech Optetrak Logic Knee Implant
- Exactech Truliant Knee Replacement
- Exactech Connexion GXL Hip Implant Liner
- Exactech Vantage Ankle Implants
As more information surfaces regarding the company’s actions, additional recalls may occur if more products are found to be defective.
What is the problem with Exactech knee, ankle, and hip implants?
For the Exactech knee and ankle products, the devices may have been compromised due to oxygen getting into packaging that was sealed improperly. This can lead to premature wearing and degradation of the components.
For the hip implants, certain aspects of the liner may be subject to premature wearing. Injury risks for all of these products include pain, damage to the joint, bone loss, and other conditions.
How can a defective medical implant lawyer help me?
Filing a lawsuit for an Exactech implant injury is a complex process. An attorney can help you with:
- Reviewing the facts of what happened to you
- Researching relevant laws
- Gathering documents and evidence for trial
- Crafting a strong legal strategy
The amount of compensation obtained often depends on many factors, including the skill and experience of the lawyer handling your case. Contact Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann for legal representation and guidance.
FREE CONSULTATION
Are you ready to tell your story?
Using the web form below will begin the process of your free consultation, which is confidential and carries no obligation to hire our firm. Considering your safety, our consultations may be done via telephone or a video call format. During business hours expect to receive a return phone call within an hour. You will speak with one of our top-rated attorneys during your consultation who will attempt to provide you with reliable answers to your legal questions. We look forward to assisting you!
I agree to receive emails, text messages, and phone calls regarding my legal inquiry, which may be considered advertising material. Emails, text messages, and phone calls may be automatically generated using the information from the above form to better coordinate communication. I understand my consent to this is not necessary to obtain legal services from Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann, P.C. MSG and Data Rates may apply. Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann, P.C. will not share your information with any 3rd party marketing and sales organizations.
Need to talk to a lawyer today?
CALL us todayHIGHLY AWARDED LAW FIRM
IN YOUR CORNER
Our law firm has received top awards from the country's most prestigious organizations recognizing leading law firms.
.png)
Have you been injured in an accident?
.png)
Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann is a team of personal injury lawyers in Birmingham, Alabama. We serve clients throughout the United States for all types of personal injury cases.
Navigation
Get Social
© 2021 Pittman, Dutton, Hellums, Bradley & Mann, P.C. - All Rights Reserved
The recoveries and testimonials on this website are not an indication of future results. Every case is different, and regardless of what friends, family, or other individuals may say about what a case is worth, each case must be evaluated on its own facts and circumstances as they apply to the law. The valuation of a case depends on the facts, the injuries, the jurisdiction, the venue, the witnesses, the parties, and the testimony, among other factors. Furthermore, no representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.