Carrying around a few extra pounds can pose a health risk for many of us, but morbid obesity can cause serious health problems. Not only can obesity lead to high blood pressure, clogged arteries and all sorts of ailments, excess weight can cause issues with joints, particularly hips. Having hip replacement surgery can benefit many individuals, but if a person is obese, the risks can sometimes outweigh the benefits.

A study conducted at the Academic Medical Centre in Amsterdam showed that patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 30 were 3.3 times more likely to suffer infections as a result of hip replacement surgery, and 1.5 time more likely to experience loosening of the artificial joint. In addition, obese patients are at risk for developing thromboembolism or potential dislocation of a newly implanted hip replacement. Any of these complications could cause the patient to suffer from chronic infections, the need for several painful revision surgeries to correct the problem, or even death in the case of an embolism.

More orthopedic physicians are suggesting alternatives to hip replacement surgeries for patients who suffer from morbid obesity. In the United States, the increase in obesity has caused the need for many more joint replacement surgeries to be performed, putting many patients at risk for experiencing the outcomes mentioned. Overweight and obese individuals are encouraged to explore alternatives such as walkers and scooters to avoid surgical complications. In extreme cases where surgery is the only solution, patients are advised to lose weight prior to a hip replacement procedure in order to reduce the risk of complications.

If you are obese and are experiencing complications with a recent hip replacement procedure, speak to your doctor immediately. You may have been implanted with a defective or recalled hip replacement device that might be contributing to your symptoms. Even with the inherent risks, the device used by your orthopedic surgeon could be contributing to your symptoms.

If you are currently awaiting a hip replacement procedure, speak to your doctor and surgeon about whether surgery is the best possible solution to your dilemma. In addition to putting yourself at risk, you might also be at risk for receiving a defective hip implant.

Victims of  defective hip replacements need to protect their health and their rights as consumers. The Rottenstein Law Group and its attorneys stand behind their clients with over 25 years of personal injury litigation experience. We do whatever it takes to advocate for you, even if it means going to trial.

Fill out our contact form to protect your rights. You may be eligible for compensation for pain, suffering, lost wages and unforeseen medical expenses because of your defective hip.