Exactech Orthopedic Implant Recall Litigation
Case Overview
In 2022, orthopedic device manufacturer Exactech issued one of the largest joint implant recalls in U.S. history, affecting over 147,000 knee, hip, and ankle replacement devices. The recall stemmed from the use of out-of-specification polyethylene packaging bags that failed to prevent oxygen infiltration, causing the implant components to oxidize and degrade prematurely — often while still inside patients' bodies. This degradation led to accelerated wear, implant loosening, bone loss, and severe pain, forcing thousands of patients to undergo complex and painful revision surgeries to remove and replace the failed devices.
Plaintiffs in this MDL allege that Exactech knew or should have known about the packaging defect for years before issuing the recall, and that the company prioritized profits over patient safety by continuing to sell the defective products. Claims include strict products liability, negligence, breach of warranty, and failure to warn. The litigation is particularly impactful because many affected patients are elderly individuals who face heightened surgical risks with revision procedures. The MDL has grown rapidly and is considered one of the most significant medical device litigations of the 2020s.
Who May Qualify
Patients in the United States who received an Exactech knee (Optetrak, Truliant, or Connexion), hip, or ankle implant that was subject to the 2022 recall, and who experienced complications such as implant failure, loosening, or required a revision surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Exactech implant was recalled?
Exactech's 2022 recall covered specific lots of its Optetrak, Truliant, and Connexion knee systems, as well as hip and ankle devices with out-of-specification packaging. Your orthopedic surgeon or hospital can check your implant records against the recalled lot numbers listed in the FDA recall notice.
What compensation can I get from the Exactech lawsuit?
Potential compensation may include costs of revision surgery, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The litigation is ongoing and no global settlement has been announced yet.
Do I need to have already had revision surgery to join the lawsuit?
Not necessarily. While patients who have undergone revision surgery have the strongest claims, individuals whose implants have been recalled and who are experiencing symptoms may also have viable claims. An attorney can evaluate your specific situation.