Biomet Orthopedics started its M 2 a line of versatile hip implant devices in 1996, and currently, the manufacturer produces six varieties of M 2 a metal ball components. Hip implant systems, such as the ones made by Biomet, are comprised of three components – a ball, a cup-like device inside which the ball fits and rotates, and a stem connected to the ball that also connects to the thigh bone.

The six types of metal ball components that make up the M 2 a line include:

• M 2 a-RingLoc™, introduced in May 1996
• 28mm M 2 a-Taper™, introduced in May 2000
• 32mm M 2 a-Taper™, introduced in September 2000
• M 2 a-30™, introduced in November 2001
• M 2 a-Magnum™, introduced in October 2004
• M 2 a-Magnum™ Tri-Spike™, introduced in February 2006

While all of these M 2 a hip implant components are made of a metal alloy (that contains some combination of Cobalt, Chromium and Molybdenum), they differ in size, range of motion, and how they connect/interact with the other components of Biomet hip implant devices.

Design Features of Biomet M 2 a Hip Implant Devices

With more than 15 years of experience in manufacturing hip replacement devices, Biomet prides itself implementing the latest technologies and newest innovations — including use of cutting-edge alloys, improvements to the shape and fit of components, and surgical innovations and techniques — in order to:

• Maximize mobility
• Minimize friction between the devices’ metal components
• Minimize the possibility of hip dislocation (due to the ball popping out of the cup component)
• Reduce pain
• Increase the longevity of the device and, consequently, minimize the possible need for future revision surgery

Individuals most likely to need a Biomet M 2 a hip device include those who have not been able to successfully treat or manage the severe symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, bone tumors, and/or hip fractures. Typically, other, less invasive treatments, such as physical therapy and medications, are tried before a Biomet M 2 a device is surgically implanted in patients.

Design Flaws of Biomet M 2 a Hip Replacement Systems

Despite use of certain innovations, Biomet M 2 a hip devices carry some risk of malfunction, depending on a patient’s medical history, the surgical method used to implant the device, and the patient’s lifestyle (i.e., whether the patient lives a more active or a more sedentary lifestyle).

Some of the possible design elements that can put patients at risk of needing one or more revision surgeries include:

• Allergic reaction to the device
• Damage to the bone, tissues, and/or nerves surrounding the device (due to implantation methods or the size and nature of the implanted device)
• Loosening of the device, which can contribute to hip dislocation
• Shape and fit of the ball and cup components, as those with more active lifestyles may move in ways that causes dislocation of the device
• Shortening of the leg attached to the device, due to an improper fit of the Biomet M 2 a
• Use of metal components, as they have the potential to grid on each other, causing metal ions to be released into the blood (this can cause inflammation in the surrounding tissue and bone; long term effects can include heart and neurological damage)

Contact a Defective Hip Lawyer

If you or someone you love has had problems with a hip replacement, you might be eligible for compensation. To learn more, schedule a free case review with an experience defective hip implant lawyer today.