Stryker Knee Replacement Lawsuit
Stryker Corporation, a medical device manufacturer, has faced numerous lawsuits alleging that its Triathlon® knee replacement system is defective and can cause serious complications, including pain, instability, and revision surgery.
Allegations Against Stryker
Plaintiffs in these lawsuits allege that the Triathlon® system’s cutting guide, a tool used to position the implant during surgery, is inaccurate and can lead to misalignment of the implant. This misalignment can cause the implant to wear out prematurely, loosen, and cause pain and instability.
Stryker Recalls
In 2013, Stryker recalled a portion of its Triathlon® cutting guides due to concerns about their accuracy. The company also issued a recall in 2016 for certain Triathlon® implant components.
Legal Action
Despite these recalls, lawsuits continue to be filed against Stryker. In 2019, a federal judge in Minnesota ruled that Stryker could be held liable for the design defects in its Triathlon® system. This ruling could pave the way for more settlements and verdicts in favor of plaintiffs.
Stryker’s Response
Stryker has denied the allegations against it and has maintained that its Triathlon® system is safe and effective. The company has argued that the misalignment of implants is often caused by factors other than the cutting guide, such as patient anatomy or surgical technique.
Impact of Lawsuits
The Stryker knee replacement lawsuits have had a significant impact on the company. The company has been forced to pay millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. The lawsuits have also damaged the company’s reputation and made it more difficult for Stryker to sell its Triathlon® system.
Conclusion
The Stryker knee replacement lawsuits are a reminder of the importance of product safety and the need for manufacturers to carefully design and test their products. Patients who have experienced complications with their Stryker knee implants should consult with an attorney to discuss their legal options.
