Firm Represents Patients With Concerns Over De Puy Products

Product liability lawyers at Irwin Mitchell have welcomed the news that the MHRA will launch an investigation into the safety of metal on metal hip implants. 

Following an investigation by the Sunday Telegraph, which found more than 30,000 British patients have received metal on metal hip implants, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has said it has taken "prompt action".

The newspaper said there are concerns that the implants are more dangerous than previously thought and that they could also cause "systemic toxicity" in the body.

In April 2010, the MHRA issued an alert to healthcare professionals over the safety of metal implants.  The MHRA advised that people fitted with the devices should undergo annual check-ups for five years following surgery.  It also said that those experiencing pain should be given tests to check the levels of cobalt and chromium in their blood, and an MRI or ultrasound scan to check for soft tissue reactions.

It is understood that the MHRA will now consider whether additional advice for patients and surgeons is necessary.

Irwin Mitchell represents an increasing number of patients who have had been affected by problems with their metal on metal hip implants and in particular the De Puy ASR/ASR XL, which was recalled in 2010.  Many of the firm’s clients have needed surgery to remove and replace the failed implant with some needing multiple operations and suffering long-term disability. 

Gary Walker, product liability specialist and lawyer representing a large number of patients, said:  "I have seen the effects that the failure of the hip implants, which were designed for the younger and more active patient, can have on patients.

“I have spoken to many people whose lives have been affected significantly and are no longer able to work, carry out the most basic tasks or look after their own children and they are all very concerned at what the future holds for them. I would urge the MHRA to provide some clarity and reassurance on this as soon as possible.

“It is vital that the MHRA learn from this and strive to ensure that all medical devices are fully assessed and safe before being made available to patients rather than responding once the defects in these products have become apparent and are causing injury.”

Have you been affected by a hip replacement failure? If you would like to talk to one of our experts about a possible compensation claim, call 0800 056 4110 or contact us online.

Our expert personal injury lawyers will provide you with free initial advice on your compensation claim if you have suffered as a result of metal-on-hip implants. See our Metal-On-Metal Hip Implants Claims page for more information.