Sulzer Hip Implants

On December 8, 2000, Sulzer Orthopedics (now known as Centerpulse Orthopedics) recalled many of its Inter-Op acetabular shells for hip implants. These implants were primarily sold after October 1999; however, some were sold as early as June of 1997. According to Sulzer Orthopedics, residue remained on the surface of the shells following the machining process which could prevent the implant from properly bonding with the bone.

Approximately 26,000 people were implanted with the defective devices. Thousands of patients who received these recalled Sulzer hip implants reported experiencing serious problems, such as: severe pain, loose implants, second surgeries, inability to bear weight or walk, and other health complications.

On May 8, 2002, Judge Kathleen O’Malley, of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, approved the Class Action Settlement in the litigation known as In re Sulzer Hip Prosthesis and Knee Prosthesis Product, MDL No. 1401. The Claims Administrator for the Settlement is currently in the process of reviewing the class claim forms.