Sulzer's New Problem? Knee Replacements
June 3, 2001
Sulzer Orthopedics may have another problem to worry about in addition to the company's defective hip replacement device. In a recent letter to doctors, Sulzer revealed that the company has received reports of "unanticipated adverse clinical outcomes" associated with its knee replacement device. This news comes as Sulzer is reeling from lawsuits alleging that the company's hip implant device is defective. The company recently admitted that it may not have adequate insurance coverage to compensate victims of the Sulzer hip replacement device.
The defective Sulzer hip replacement device was recalled because an oily substance left behind during the manufacturing process prevented the device from properly bonding with human bone. Sulzer does not believe its knee replacement device has a similar problem. Nevertheless, the company recalled the knee replacements in March 2001 and Sulzer is encouraging doctors to monitor patients who received the knee implants prior to the recall. According to the company, the knee replacements at issue were manufactured and implanted between July 2000 and December 2000. Over 1,500 patients may have received the defective knee replacement.
According to a orthopedic surgeon at a Tampa hospital, "The patients are all scared . . . every day I get a phone call."
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
More ...
- Defective Sulzer Hip Replacements: Overview
- Judge Approves Sulzer's $1 Billion Settlement Offer
- Sulzer Threatens Bankruptcy
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