Defective Elbow Replacement Lawsuits
There is an inherent risk involved with any surgical procedure, but patients have the right to expect that certain health and safety standards will be met. In regards to the placement of medical devices or artificial joints, patients should not have to worry about complications from faulty equipment.
Unfortunately, defective elbow replacement products have caused unnecessary pain for a number of patients. Individuals who would like to be compensated for losses can work with a defective medical device attorney at Reed & Terry, L.L.P., serving Sugar Land, TX, Katy, TX, Richmond, TX, and surrounding areas, to file a defective elbow replacement lawsuit.
Complications from Defective Elbow Replacements
An artificial joint is not built to last forever. However, most patients can expect that their elbow replacement to last for up to 10 years. A defective elbow replacement can cause the device to fail much sooner, resulting in several complications for the patient, and likely the need for an additional surgery.
Since an artificial joint is placed inside the body, patients cannot rely on visual cues to determine if the replacement joint has become loose or otherwise compromised. Instead, it is usually physical symptoms that first alert patients to issues with their device.
Symptoms stemming from a defective elbow replacement may include:
- Elbow pain
- Limited joint movement
- Weakness of surrounding muscles
- Infection
- Fractures in the bones surrounding the implant
- Nerve palsy in the hands (resulting in numbness or loss of sensation)
Diagnosing and Treating a Defective Elbow Replacement Product
Patients who are experiencing potential symptoms of a defective elbow replacement should report them to their doctor immediately. The patient will likely need to undergo x-rays or digital imaging to determine if a defective elbow replacement product is responsible for the symptoms.
If the artificial joint is found to be defective, the patient will probably need to undergo a secondary surgery to repair or replace the device. Following surgery, many of our clients require follow-up therapy and rehabilitation to strengthen surrounding muscles and tendons, and regain full motion of the arm.
Who Is Liable?
If a manufacturer receives sufficient evidence that their product is faulty, they are responsible for issuing a recall to have the device pulled from use. Patients who already have the device should also be alerted of potential concerns. Whether a recall has been issued or not, if an individual suffers complications and damages that is caused by a defective elbow replacement, the device manufacturer should be held liable for resulting losses.
Filing a Lawsuit
Individuals who have been injured by a defective elbow replacement product can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for damages. Unfortunately, manufacturers of medical devices are likely to have large legal teams on their side prepared to fight against defective product claims. Victims of defective elbow replacements need to be prepared to have the same expert representation.
Our attorneys will work to hold manufacturers responsible so that our clients can be justly compensated for their losses. We consider losses such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering to get our clients the maximum compensation they are due.
Contact Us
If you would like to schedule a free case review with the attorneys at Reed & Terry, L.L.P., call (281) 201-0988 at your earliest convenience. Our team will listen to the details of your situation and advise you of your legal options.
