Case Centralization Sought For Stryker Hip Implant Cases

A recent request was filed to centralize all New Jersey State Court Stryker Hip Implant claims in front of one judge for joint discovery and handling. Cases are often centralized to save litigation resources and expedite the overall litigation process. If approved, this request for centralization may be the first step in a potential MDL, multi-district litigation, for Stryker Hip Implant cases which would include not only New Jersey cases but also include cases throughout the nation.

Stryker Hip Implants recently came under fire when numerous FDA complaints and studies indicated that there may be serious problems associated with Rejuvenate and ABG II modular hip stem component parts due to fretting and corrosion. Common complications include pain, discomfort, swelling, infections, and the necessity for revision surgeries.

According to the request for centralization, there are currently at least ten cases pending for individuals seriously injured by Stryker Rejuvenate and ABG II modular hip stem products. It is expected that the number of cases will grow as lawyers begin reviewing their hip implant cases.

The Stryker Rejuvenate Modular Hip System was first marketed in early 2009. While Stryker claimed that their replacement parts would last up to 20 years, Stryker voluntarily recalled its Rejuvenate and ABG II modular systems only 3 years after reports began to surfaces regarding unusually high hip failure rates and high rates of hip revision surgery to remove the components at fault for injury.

The most common allegation raised in the Stryker lawsuits currently in suit is that the Stryker Rejuvenate Modular neck-stem system has inherent manufacturing defects that increase the likelihood of metal debris being released in the body as components rub against each other. The rubbing action or “fretting” often leads to metallosis, painful inflammation, and the gradual loosening of component parts. Fretting may also lead to necrosis of tissues surrounding the hip and the bone deterioration.