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Attune Knee Replacement Failures


Philadelphia defective medical device lawyers assist individuals injured by defective Attune knee replacement systems.Individuals suffering from chronic knee pain and immobility have turned to artificial knee replacements to regain an active lifestyle. Artificial knee replacement surgery can help a patient increase the range of motion in their knees and regain the use of their muscles and ligaments.

DePuy Synthes’s Attune Knee Replacement System, a Johnson & Johnson product that was approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2010, has several different components that work together to mimic the natural movement of the knee. These components include the Attune Gradius Curve, Glideright Articulation, Sofcam Contact, Logiclock Tibial Base, and AOX Polyethylene.

Problems with the Attune Knee Replacement System

While most artificial joint replacements can function for approximately 15 years, the Attune Knee Replacement System has been failing within months after implantation, according to individuals. The FDA reports that it has received over 230 complaints associated with the Attune Knee Replacement System since 2010.

Patients have reported a tibial loosening in the artificial knee causing extreme pain, swelling, and decreased mobility. It is suspected that the smooth surfaces of the system are making it difficult for the surgical glue to keep the knee implant attached to the tibial bone. This results in destabilization of the entire implant system. The company has since changed the design of the replacement to include a rough underside on the tibial base plate to allow better adhesion to the tibial bone.

Complications from the Failed Attune Knee Replacement System

Failed knee replacements can lead to the following complications:

  • Extreme and persistent pain
  • Heat in the knee following implantation surgery
  • Knee instability when standing or bearing weight on the knee
  • Backwards or sideways knee movement
  • Unusual swelling
  • Permanent damage to the knee joint
  • Decreased mobility or complete immobility
  • Need for additional surgeries

Surgeries required to repair or extract defective knee replacements can be especially painful. Post implant surgeries frequently result in muscle or nerve damage, bone loss, and serious infections. Reconstructive surgery may also be required if damage to the surrounding bones has occurred.

Patients have begun to file lawsuits against the manufacturer of the Attune Knee Replacement System alleging a failure to warn patients of the risks associated with this medical device. The complaints also alleged that the manufacturer had notice of the defects of the artificial knee replacements. Plaintiffs believe that the manufacturer’s knowledge of the defects is why recent design changes were made to the implants.

Philadelphia Defective Medical Device Lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler Assist Individuals Injured by Defective Knee Replacements

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries because of a defective Attune Knee Replacement System or other type of defective medical device, you may be entitled to compensation. The Philadelphia defective medical device lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler work with injured individuals and their families. With an office conveniently located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, we proudly service clients throughout the surrounding areas. To schedule your initial consultation today, call us at 215-569-4000 or submit an online inquiry form.