The Zimmer Biomet CPT Hip System Femoral Stem is a medical device used in total hip replacement surgeries that’s specifically designed to replace the femoral stem.
However, recent studies and regulatory reviews have identified an increased risk of postoperative femoral fractures in patients implanted with this system. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a safety communication warning that patients with this implant may experience a higher rate of fractures around the femoral stem than similar devices.
If you or a loved one suffered a thigh bone/femur fracture after receiving this medical device during a total hip replacement, the defective medical device lawyers at Ferrer Poirot Feller want to hear from you. We’ve helped countless other victims of dangerous medical devices get maximum compensation, and we have the experience to build and win your claim, too. Contact us today for a free case review.
Increased Risk of Femur Fractures
Research indicates that approximately 1.4% of patients with the Zimmer Biomet CPT Hip System experience femoral fractures following surgery, which exceeds the 0.6% to 1% fracture rate associated with comparable implants.
These fractures can lead to severe pain, loss of mobility, and the need for additional revision surgeries. In many cases, the only solution is a complex surgical procedure to replace the failed implant, which can lead to prolonged recovery times and increased medical expenses.
What Are the Complications of a Femoral Fracture?
A femoral fracture can lead to serious complications, especially when it occurs around an implanted femoral stem like the Zimmer Biomet CPT Hip System. Some of the most common complications of a fractured femur include:
- Delayed Healing or Nonunion: Some femur fractures fail to heal properly and require additional surgical intervention such as bone grafting or revision surgery.
- Infection: Post-surgical infections can occur, particularly if the fracture requires hardware replacement or prolonged hospital stays.
- Blood Clots: Immobilization and surgery increase the risk of blood clots, which can travel to the lungs and cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
- Implant Failure or Loosening: Fractures around the femoral stem can lead to instability, causing the implant to shift or fail. In these cases, complex revision surgery is often required.
- Chronic Pain and Mobility Issues: Even after healing, some patients experience long-term pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking.
- Nerve and Blood Vessel Damage: A fracture can injure nearby nerves and blood vessels, leading to numbness, weakness, or circulation problems.
These complications can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, often requiring extended rehabilitation and additional surgeries.
FDA Safety Communication
The FDA has acknowledged the heightened risk of fractures with the Zimmer Biomet CPT Hip System and is closely monitoring reports from healthcare providers and patients.
The agency says that patients who have received this implant should remain vigilant for symptoms such as sudden pain, instability, or difficulty walking. Patients experiencing these issues may require immediate medical intervention to prevent further complications, including femoral fracture.
In response to the FDA’s safety warning and increasing evidence of the device’s dangers to patients, the device’s manufacturer announced its plan to stop selling the Zimmer Biomet CPT Hip System by Dec. 2024. However, the FDA is concerned that it’s still being implanted in patients, leading to new potential complications and serious injuries.
Compensation Is Available for Injured Patients
Patients who suffer from femoral fractures due to the Zimmer Biomet CPT Hip System may be eligible for compensation.
The costs associated with revision surgeries, physical therapy, lost wages, and ongoing medical care can be overwhelming. At Ferrer Poirot Feller, we believe everyone affected by this defective and dangerous medical device should get full compensation to cover their damages and move forward with their lives.
Contact Us for a Free Case Review
If you or a loved one has experienced complications due to a Zimmer Biomet CPT Hip System implant, know that you have rights and an experienced law firm ready to protect them.
The team at Ferrer Poirot Feller is dedicated to helping people like you who were harmed by defective medical devices seek the justice and compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal rights.