Man Wins $2 Million in Hip Implant Lawsuit

Apr 19,2017

A New Mexico judge awarded a man $2 million in a hip implant lawsuit last month. Brian McDonald sued Zimmer Inc. after he suffered an adverse reaction to metal debris shed by the company’s hip implant device. According to the lawsuit, MacDonald’s bloodstream contained high levels of cobalt metal after he received the implant during hip replacement surgery. The defect caused MacDonald extreme pain, and he had to undergo two revision surgeries. However, his symptoms returned both times.

Judge Nan G. Nash, who issued the verdict, said the device’s ability to cause metallosis—metal poisoning—is not an acceptable risk of harm. Therefore, the judge determined Zimmer was liable for creating an unreasonably dangerous device.

Hip Implant Devices can Poison Patients

Since 2017, Zimmer has sold roughly 148,000 of these hip replacements nationally. According to McDonald’s lawyers, the combination of metals in the implant creates a risk of generating metal debris. This can then lead to poisoning in a patient. They also accused Zimmer of failing to adequately test the device for safety.

“A patient going in for a serious surgery should not have to worry that the devices used might worsen their symptoms,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a defective product and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.