Injured or Hurt? Get Your FREE Case Review, In Person or Virtually Online
Last updated Wednesday, October 15th, 2025
For those seeking an ‘exactech lawsuit update’, the tally of cases against the medical device company has reached 1,169 in the MDL as of March 2024. This article outlines the most recent developments, including legal maneuvers by Exactech and pivotal decisions from Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis that could influence the outcome for many claimants.
Exactech, a global medical device company, is currently grappling with 1,169 pending lawsuits. These lawsuits have been filed by patients who claim harm due to defective packaging in medical devices dating back to 2004. As of March 2024, 111 new cases have been filed or transferred to the multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the past month alone. This MDL, managed by Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis, has consolidated cases from various U.S. regions in the Eastern District of New York.
As part of the consolidation effort, 47 new lawsuits were added to the Exactech implant recall class action MDL last month, bringing the total number of cases under the MDL to 1,169. Judge Garaufis, the presiding judge in the MDL, is currently working on setting deadlines for joint discovery and case management plans. He is also in the process of finalizing the list of cases eligible for the bellwether trial and formalizing the plan. However, Exactech is disputing the production of certain documents requested in discovery, including those relating to prior litigation and regulatory actions in Europe.
A significant portion of the lawsuits against Exactech involves knee replacement devices. In the past 30 days, the Exactech class action lawsuit has seen 111 new cases either filed or transferred into it. This represents a significant increase in activity for the lawsuit. The MDL now includes 882 cases, with 40 new filings over the last month. The court has issued an amended Case Management Order No. 3, focusing on the preservation of pathology specimens and explanted medical devices.
An important status conference has been scheduled for December 20th to discuss the management order for bellwether trial selection and potential trial dates. Moreover, the court approved a process for future lawsuits to be filed directly in the MDL. Recent rulings indicate that Exactech may have been denied payment if the government knew about the high failure rate of the implants. These rulings highlight the seriousness of the issues with Exactech’s knee implants and the potential implications for the company’s legal and financial future.
In addition to knee replacements, Exactech also faces legal complications regarding its hip implant devices. The company has recalled certain hip systems and liners from various brands, affecting devices dating back to as early as 2004, including the Connexion GXL liners. These recalled devices may lead to complications such as pain in the hip and midsection, swelling, instability in other joints, and even necessitate revision surgery.
Despite the severity of these implications, as of February 2024, there have been no trials or settlements in Exactech hip implant lawsuits. However, litigation remains active with 164 cases involving hip products alone. This suggests an escalating legal battle for Exactech regarding its hip implant devices.
Exactech’s ankle replacement devices haven’t been spared from the litigation either. The company’s recall on February 7, 2022, included Vantage total ankle replacements due to packaging problems, leading to risks such as premature failure. As of February 2, 2024, the Exactech implant recall MDL included 79 new ankle replacement cases, bringing the total to 1,169 with 9 cases specifically involving ankle products.
Despite the ongoing litigation, Exactech continues to innovate in its product offerings. The company’s subsidiary, BlueOrtho, has recently received FDA 510(k) clearance for the ExactechGPS® Ankle system, marking a significant innovation in total ankle arthroplasty. This development underlines the complex landscape of the Exactech recall lawsuits, where litigation and innovation coexist.
The lawsuits against Exactech are not just legal battles; they reflect real-life tragedies experienced by patients due to defective Exactech devices. Patients with recalled Exactech knee implants may suffer from severe pain and discomfort, bone loss and instability, infection, and injury due to the defective tibial insert. Symptoms of a failed Exactech knee implant include osteolysis, pain around the device, limited mobility, stiffness, loosening of components, dislocation, tibial loosening, inflammation, infection, and clicking or popping of the joint.
Such failures can lead to significant pain, instability, difficulty walking, and swelling. Patients who received the Optetrak knee implant have had to undergo painful revision surgeries prematurely and at a higher rate than should be expected for such devices. The corrective revision surgery is often required to repair or replace defective inserts, which can result from symptoms such as knee replacement surgery complications:
These symptoms can be painful or difficult to manage, and may require revision surgery.
The human cost of the recalled Exactech knee implants is significant. Patients have reported severe joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and the need for revision surgery. The Exactech recall includes an estimated 147,000 knee replacement implants in the U.S. and has been associated with early failures due to defective vacuum seal packaging and polyethylene insert oxidation.
The lawsuits allege that Exactech had prior knowledge of issues with its Optetrak knee replacement product as early as 2012, yet continued to sell the product. This only adds to the distress and suffering of the patients who trusted the company and its products for their knee replacement surgeries.
The financial burden that faulty Exactech hip devices impose on patients is enormous. Revision surgeries required due to these faulty devices can lead to significant financial burden for patients. The recall of Exactech hip implants, specifically those with the Connexion GXL liner, was due to a significant defect leading to abnormally high early failure rates.
Affected patients may face complications due to oxidation of polyethylene components, leading to symptoms like pain in the hip and midsection or swelling and instability in other joints, which could necessitate revision surgery. These surgeries can be costly, and the financial burden can be detrimental, especially if the patient doesn’t have sufficient insurance coverage.
Patients with recalled Exactech ankle implants face numerous challenges. They can experience symptoms such as:
The long-term effects of the recalled Exactech ankle implants can lead to ongoing health problems for patients, necessitating continuous medical care, which in turn has a profound impact on their emotional well-being.
In addition, there is concern that patients with other ankle implants like the Optetrak Logic or Truliant may face similar challenges as those experienced with the recalled Optetrak implant, due to common defective tibial inserts. This highlights the urgent need for thorough investigations and corrective actions by Exactech.
As a patient, navigating through a medical device recall can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to have the right information and resources to understand the situation and make informed decisions. If you’re a patient who has received an Exactech implant after 2004 and experienced complications, you should consider whether your implant is part of the recalled Exactech implants. The recall, which expanded in February 2022, includes the following devices:
The recall was necessary due to defective packaging that affected approximately 80% of devices manufactured since 2004 and led to premature wear and degradation.
Navigating through this situation can be complex, given the legal and medical terminology and procedures involved. But knowing what to do and where to turn for guidance is crucial. One essential step is to check whether the FDA has classified the Exactech recall as a Class II, indicating the potential for temporary or medically reversible health consequences.
If you’re wondering whether your Exactech implant was part of the recall, there are several ways to find out. The Exactech hip recall includes GXL Liners used in Novation, Acumatch, and MCS hip replacement devices, as well as the AccuMatch Hip System, which were recalled as recently as January 2024. Recalled Exactech knee devices were identified as having a defective polyethylene tibial insert causing accelerated wear and production of debris.
To confirm whether your implant is part of the recall, you can verify the serial number on Exactech’s website, which is available in your medical records. If you’re unable to find this information or have any other questions about your implant status, you can reach out to Exactech directly for assistance.
Receiving a recall notice can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to take prompt action to safeguard your health and legal rights. If you receive an Exactech recall notice, you should immediately:
Discussing with your surgeon is critical to understand the potential risks and determine whether additional monitoring or revision surgery is necessary. It’s also important to document any symptoms or issues you experience with your Exactech implant and to keep the recall notice for your records to assist in discussions with healthcare providers.
Lastly, before signing any agreement related to the recall with Exactech, you should consult with a lawyer experienced in Exactech recall cases to comprehend your rights and options.
Filing a lawsuit against Exactech requires a detailed and comprehensive legal approach. It involves understanding complex legal procedures, managing paperwork, and navigating negotiations. It’s important to note that you can file an Exactech Recall Lawsuit even if you have not received a recall letter, reaffirming that notification is not a prerequisite for legal action. To file an Exactech lawsuit, it is crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process.
The cornerstone of any lawsuit is evidence. Gathering pertinent evidence is a critical step in building a strong Exactech case. This could include medical records, doctor’s notes, and details of the device involved. It’s also important to mitigate your injuries by reducing the impact of injuries and associated costs from a recalled Exactech implant. This will substantiate your claim and potentially contribute to a favorable legal outcome.
To qualify for an Exactech lawsuit, patients must meet the following criteria:
If you meet these criteria and have experienced adverse effects from an Exactech medical device, you may have grounds for legal action.
Given the complex nature of these lawsuits, it’s advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible. This will help you determine your lawsuit eligibility and protect your right to legal action.
If you’re considering initiating an Exactech knee replacement lawsuit, there are several important steps to follow. The first step is to obtain legal assistance from a product liability lawyer who is experienced with mass tort litigation, as they can navigate the complex legal procedures and adhere to state deadlines. Next, the initiation of a lawsuit requires collecting evidence, which includes obtaining medical records, doctor’s notes, and details of the device involved.
A critical step in the lawsuit process is for patients to assess the damages they have incurred. This often involves working with a lawyer to account for things like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Once all the evidence has been gathered and damages assessed, the attorney will proceed to officially file the lawsuit on behalf of the patient.
Just like knee replacement lawsuits, filing a lawsuit for a failed Exactech hip replacement also involves several steps. Gather all your medical records and assess any damages incurred. This includes costs associated with medical treatments, as well as any pain and suffering you’ve experienced as a result of the faulty implant.
Patients who have received the Exactech hip replacement should take the following steps:
If you’re considering filing an Exactech lawsuit, you may be wondering about potential compensation. Settlement estimates for Exactech lawsuits range from $100,000 to $300,000, where the severity of the injury is a major determining factor. Exactech knee implant recall lawsuits have average estimated settlements between $100,000-$225,000, while hip replacement recalls are estimated around $250,000-$300,000, and ankle implant lawsuits are estimated at $125,000-$250,000.
Compensation claims may include reimbursement for medical expenses, lost income, and compensation for pain and suffering endured due to the recalled device. It’s important to understand that these are just estimates and actual compensation amounts can vary based on individual case specifics. An attorney with experience in Exactech lawsuits can guide you through the process and help maximize your potential compensation.
When it comes to estimating the value of an Exactech knee implant lawsuit, several factors come into play. Settlements are projected to range from $220,000 to $300,000, though the average settlement amount could be between $50,000 and $300,000 depending on case specifics. The value of a lawsuit can vary based on:
Victims of failed Exactech knee implants may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost income resulting from implant malfunction. Lawyers with a deep understanding of the specifics of the Exactech recall can maximize compensation for their clients by leveraging information such as the defective vacuum seal packaging and the high failure rates documented in the FDA’s MAUDE database.
In Exactech hip implant cases, the potential for financial recovery is also substantial. Key factors determining compensation include the severity of harm to the patient, the necessity for medical treatment, total medical costs incurred, loss of income and potential future earnings, as well as pain and suffering. Compensation can significantly increase in cases where the injuries from the defective Exactech hip implant cause substantial pain, disability, or long-term impairment, as well as when the evidence robustly links the injuries with the implant.
The compensation prospects for Exactech hip implant cases may align with settlement outcomes for knee and ankle implant cases when considering factors such as the patient’s mobility and quality of life. Additionally, younger plaintiffs may receive higher compensation due to the defective implant’s long-term impact on their life expectancy and potential future quality of life.
In any legal battle, having the right legal representation is critical. This is particularly true in Exactech recall lawsuits where understanding complex legal procedures, managing paperwork, and navigating negotiations are key. Exactech lawyers possess unique insights into the company’s litigation history, including past legal issues with faulty knee replacements, which they can leverage during settlement negotiations.
Legal representation in Exactech recall lawsuits is crucial for navigating the complex legal process, managing paperwork and negotiations, and advocating for the client’s interests in court. An attorney specializing in Exactech lawsuits can simplify the legal process for their clients, provide crucial advice on legal options, and represent them in court to strive for the best possible outcome.
When it comes to Exactech lawsuits, selecting the right attorney could make a significant difference in your case’s outcome. Clients should select an attorney with specialized experience representing injured consumers and patients against manufacturers in cases like Exactech lawsuits. It’s crucial to choose a national law firm with a strong history of success in settlements and jury verdicts against medical device companies for an Exactech recall lawsuit.
When interviewing attorneys, ask about:
Partnering with a firm like Wocl Leydon, which has a record of obtaining significant settlements and jury verdicts, may indicate the firm’s ability to secure favorable outcomes in Exactech recall lawsuits.
Once you’ve selected the right attorney for your Exactech lawsuit, you might wonder how they can help maximize your settlement. The subset of attorneys with specialized experience in Exactech lawsuits possess unique insights into the company’s litigation history, including past legal issues with faulty knee replacements, which they can leverage during settlement negotiations.
Maximizing settlements requires comprehensive evidence collection, such as:
A detailed assessment of damages that encompasses medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering is pivotal in understanding the full life impact of the defective implant and in negotiating appropriate compensation. Furthermore, showing that clients have taken reasonable steps to mitigate their injuries, such as following medical advice and receiving appropriate treatments, plays an important role in demonstrating diligence and can positively influence legal outcomes.
When dealing with a large number of lawsuits like the Exactech cases, legal procedures such as Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) and class action lawsuits come into play. MDL is a federal legal procedure designed to streamline the handling of numerous lawsuits that share common issues, such as in the Exactech cases, allowing for the consolidation of pretrial proceedings which can lead to increased efficiency and consistency. Bellwether trials, used in MDLs to test jury reactions to issues present in the litigation, have outcomes that influence settlement talks and provide predictive value for other cases within the MDL.
Some key points about MDL and class action lawsuits are:
However, plaintiffs may face specific considerations, such as the decision to join MDL or class actions and evaluations by Exactech attorneys regarding the representation of cases, with concerns about certain patient experiences potentially skewing the broader perspective. Furthermore, the Exactech MDL process includes agreed protocols for the handling and storage of crucial evidence, such as pathology specimens and medical devices, overseen by third-party storage providers.
To fully grasp the legal proceedings involving Exactech, it’s important to understand the Exactech implant recall MDL. Multidistrict litigation (MDL) is a federal legal procedure designed to speed up the process of handling mass tort lawsuits like the Exactech lawsuits, where many individuals have similar claims. This consolidation leads to cost savings and consistent decisions. The Exactech MDL has recently reached 1,090 total pending cases, representing a substantial increase with 184 new cases added in one month.
A status conference has been set for March 13, 2024, to discuss the litigation status, discovery challenges, and the upcoming selection of bellwether cases in the Exactech MDL. This conference aims to address these crucial aspects of the case. Exactech has provided extensive documentation, with over one million pages of Electronic Stored Information (ESI), illustrating the complex and multi-jurisdictional nature of the MDL.
In a class action lawsuit, all plaintiffs are considered as a group with a uniform outcome, whereas in an MDL, each case is treated individually with specific outcomes. Contrary to popular belief, not all class action lawsuits go to trial and many are settled out of court, which may affect settlement amounts and individual payouts. Plaintiffs in an MDL maintain more personal control over their cases compared to those in a class action, who are represented collectively by lead plaintiffs and attorneys.
It’s a misconception that class action lawsuits are resolved faster than individual claims; the complexities and number of involved parties often lead to extended legal processes. While many believe joining a class action removes the option for individual claims, plaintiffs can sometimes choose to opt out and pursue separate lawsuits for unique or more severe damages.
As we look towards the future, the legal landscape of Exactech recall lawsuits is expected to evolve further. Litigation related to the Exactech recall is projected to persist and expand, with a continued rise in the number of cases filed, signifying an active and growing legal challenge for the company. It’s expected that Exactech may employ strategies to delay the progress towards trial, such as:
These strategies may prolong the legal process and create additional hurdles for plaintiffs seeking compensation.
The selection of bellwether cases and the timing of their trial dates are critical factors that could influence the direction and outcomes of the ongoing Exactech recall lawsuits. The outcomes of these cases could set a precedent for future lawsuits, potentially impacting the settlement amounts and the company’s legal strategy.
Settlements in Exactech lawsuits are projected to range from $100,000 to $300,000, depending on individual case circumstances. Anticipated trends in the settlement amounts for Exactech may mirror past compensation figures in defective knee replacement lawsuits. However, it’s important to note that these are just estimates, and actual settlement amounts can vary significantly based on individual case specifics.
The severity of the injury, the time until the implant failed, and the age and employment status of the plaintiff are some of the factors that can influence the compensation amount. The outcomes of the bellwether trials could also play a significant role in determining future settlement amounts.
The recall of Exactech implants could have long-term implications for the company and its products. Some potential consequences include:
The recall may prompt increased regulatory scrutiny over Exactech’s manufacturing and quality assurance processes due to the defective packaging that led to product degradation. Looking forward, Exactech might revise its vacuum-seal packaging and overall manufacturing processes to mitigate the risk of future product issues and recalls. However, Exactech’s proactive response in informing affected patients and healthcare providers about the recall may play a crucial role in shaping its long-term public image and demonstrate its dedication to patient safety.
Yes, there is a recall on Exactech ankle replacement, and it is advised to stop using ALL Vantage ankle replacements regardless of when they were made due to potential defects in the plastic inserts.
The settlement for the hip replacement lawsuit totals over $4 billion, with claimants being paid $2.9 billion for suits related to the ASR Hip Resurfacing System and ASR XL Acetabular System.
A knee replacement lawsuit can be worth between $70,000 to $150,000 on average, with more serious injuries potentially leading to higher settlements, and one out of every 12 verdicts being over $1 million.
The compensation amount in Exactech lawsuits is influenced by factors such as the severity of the injury, time until the implant failed, age, employment status, specific harms, and medical treatment needs. These factors play a crucial role in determining the compensation amount.
In Person or Virtually Online
We'll respond to your written inquire within 15 minutes during business hours.
We will review your quote request within 1-2 business days and will contact you by either phone or email, or both.
