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Stryker Corporation’s Trident PSL and Hemispherical Acetabular Cups hip replacement products have been known to squeak. But, how many really do? That number may differ – depending upon who you ask…

Mixed reports

Replacement hip parts were traditionally made from metal or plastic. Newer versions made from ceramic were supposed to work better, but many patients have had to have their hips replaced again because they simply could not live with the squeaking.

There have been mixed reports on exactly how many ceramic hip replacement patients experience squeaking. Stryker maintains that less than one percent of their Trident PSL and Hemispherical Acetabular Cups squeak. However, recent studies seem to indicate that the numbers are higher. For example, the following studies reported the percentage of patients who experience squeaking at:

• 3%: Philadelphia’s Rothman Institute, internationally recognized in orthopedic science and technology, recently reported that it reviewed nearly 1,500 patients who had ceramic hip replacement surgery and concluded that 49 of those patients (3 percent) experienced audible squeaking.
• 7%: A study published in the Journal of Arthoplasty found that seven percent of patients who had a total hip replacement using ceramic parts developed squeaking – as well as other symptoms such as popping and grinding.
• 11%: A recent study published in Orthopedics Today reported that 11.4 percent of patients with ceramic hip implants experienced squeaking well above the average audible range.

In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported that patients with Stryker hip products have been complaining to the company about squeaking issues since 2005. In fact, the FDA has told Stryker that is has not done enough to correct these problems. In many cases, patients have had to undergo additional surgery to correct problems related to the products.

If you’ve been injured due to a hip replacement, contact an attorney whose practice focuses in this area of the law. Consultations are free, without obligation and are strictly confidential. To contact a qualified attorney to discuss your situation, please click here. We may be able to help.