DePuy Orthopedics has issued several recalls for components of the Limb Preservation System (LPS), a line of implants used in lower-leg reconstructive surgery, because they can fracture under normal loads. Our DePuy LPS lawyers are now evaluating potential lawsuits on behalf of individuals who were injured by the LPS Diaphyseal Sleeve or the LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary Component.
What is the DePuy LPS?
The Limb Preservation System (LPS) is a line of implants manufactured by DePuy Orthopedics. They are used in lower-leg reconstructive surgery. The implants repair extensive bone loss caused by trauma, tumors, or infections of the knee, femur, and/or tibia.
DePuy LPS Femur Replacement Recalls
The problem with the DePuy Limb Preservation System (LPS) is that several components have been recalled because they can fracture during normal walking activities. The recalled components of the DePuy LPS include:
- August 1, 2013 — Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary Component
- February 22, 2013 — LPS Diaphyseal Sleeve
DePuy LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary Component
DePuy manufactured the LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary Component from February 2007 until May 2013. The component is part of a femur replacement that can be used for the top, bottom, mid-shaft, or total replacement of the femur. It can also be used to replace the top of the tibia.
Reason for recall of the LPS Lower Extremity Dovetail Intercalary Component:
“…due to the potential for fracture of the female component, at the dovetail, when exposed to normal physiologic loads while walking. … Patients greater than 200 pounds and/or those with high levels of activity are at higher risk of fracture.”
DePuy LPS Diaphyseal Sleeve
DePuy manufactured the LPS Diaphyseal Sleeve from 2008 until July 2012. It is used in the Limb Preservation System (LPS) to enhance the fit of the knee replacement with a patient’s femur. It was recalled after the FDA received 10 reports of failure, including 6 reports of fracture.
Reason for recall of the LPS Diaphyseal Sleeve:
“The LPS Diaphyseal Sleeve to Diaphyseal Sleeve Base taper connection may not be sufficient to accommodate potential physiologic loads that may be transferred to the junction during normal gait activities by some patients. This may result in fracture of the sleeve at the taper joint.”
Symptoms of a DePuy LPS Fracture
Talk to your doctor about the symptoms of fracture and what to do if your implant fails. DePuy does not recommend routine revision surgery for patients who are not having symptoms of fracture, which may include:
- Pain
- Abnormal appearance of the femur
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Discoloration of the leg
- Instability
- Internal bleeding
- Decreased walking ability