Thousands of patients across the U.S. are taking legal action after receiving defective Exactech knee, hip, and ankle implants that were later recalled. These devices, used in joint replacement surgeries, were found to deteriorate prematurely due to faulty packaging—causing pain, mobility loss, and the need for revision surgeries.
If you or a loved one received an Exactech implant and suffered complications, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit for financial compensation. This blog explains the recall, the injuries involved, and how to file your claim in 2025.
What Happened with the Exactech Implant Recall?
In 2021 and 2022, Exactech, a medical device manufacturer, issued a massive recall of its polyethylene joint replacement inserts used in:
- Knee replacements
- Hip replacements
- Ankle replacements
The problem stemmed from defective packaging that failed to protect the implant materials from oxygen exposure. As a result, the inserts degraded much faster than expected once inside the body, leading to early device failure.
This packaging flaw affected tens of thousands of implants distributed as far back as 2004, many of which are still in patients’ bodies today.
Which Exactech Implants Were Recalled?
The recall affects the following implant systems:
Knee Replacement Systems:
- Optetrak
- Optetrak Logic
- Truliant
Hip Replacement Systems:
- Acumatch
- MCS
- Novation
Ankle Replacement System:
- Vantage
Patients implanted with these systems between 2004 and 2022 are at risk, especially if they received the device in surgeries performed between 2010 and 2021, when the faulty packaging was most prevalent.
Health Problems Linked to the Defective Implants
When the plastic inserts degrade prematurely, they cause device loosening, debris release, and bone loss, leading to serious symptoms such as:
- Persistent joint pain
- Swelling or inflammation
- Grinding or clicking sounds
- Instability or mobility issues
- Limping or difficulty walking
- Need for early revision surgery
In some cases, patients have required full replacement of the original implant, which can involve longer recovery times, increased surgical risks, and substantial medical bills.
Who Qualifies for an Exactech Lawsuit?
You may qualify to file a lawsuit if:
- You received an Exactech knee, hip, or ankle implant that was later recalled
- You experienced device failure, pain, or limited mobility
- You were told you need (or already had) a revision surgery
- You have medical documentation of your device and treatment history
Even if you have not yet undergone revision surgery, you may still be eligible—especially if you’re being monitored for future complications or showing early signs of implant wear.
What Is the Legal Basis for These Lawsuits?
Lawsuits against Exactech allege:
- Defective product design and manufacturing
- Failure to properly package implants to prevent oxidation
- Failure to warn patients and surgeons about the risk of early failure
- Negligence in quality control and long-term patient safety
These legal claims are being handled as individual product liability lawsuits, not class actions. Many are now being grouped into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in federal court to streamline pretrial proceedings.
What Compensation Can Victims Receive?
If you file a successful Exactech lawsuit, you may be eligible for compensation covering:
| Type of Damage | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Surgery, rehab, hospital stays, medication, future treatment |
| Lost Wages | Time off work during recovery or permanent disability |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical discomfort, mental anguish, lifestyle changes |
| Loss of Mobility | Inability to walk, drive, or perform daily activities |
| Long-Term Care Costs | Assisted living, physical therapy, or home health services |
Payouts will vary based on the severity of your injuries and whether a revision surgery was performed or recommended.
How to File a Claim in 2025
Here’s how to start the claims process:
Step 1: Confirm the Device Used in Your Surgery
Request surgical records from your hospital or orthopedic surgeon. Look for keywords like “Optetrak,” “Truliant,” “Acumatch,” or “Vantage.”
Step 2: Document Your Complications
Gather medical records, X-rays, revision surgery notes, and evidence of pain or limited mobility.
Step 3: Contact a Defective Medical Device Attorney
Choose a law firm with experience in orthopedic implant lawsuits and MDL litigation. Most work on a contingency basis, meaning no upfront cost to you.
Step 4: File Before the Statute of Limitations
Depending on your state, you typically have 2 to 3 years from the date you learned of the issue or underwent revision surgery. Delaying could cost you the chance to recover damages.
Should You Accept Exactech’s Settlement Offer?
Exactech has offered some affected patients a free implant replacement or limited reimbursement through a third-party claims administrator. However, these settlement offers:
- Do not include pain and suffering compensation
- May limit your right to sue later
- Often require you to waive further legal action
Before accepting any compensation directly from Exactech, consult with an attorney. A lawsuit may result in substantially higher compensation based on your injuries and future prognosis.
What If You Haven’t Had Problems Yet?
Even if your implant hasn’t failed yet, you still have options. You may:
- Qualify for medical monitoring
- Join legal claims based on increased risk of future complications
- Submit early claims for preemptive revision surgery recommendations
Legal teams are accepting clients who show early signs of implant degradation even without full failure—especially those under age 60 who received implants expected to last 15+ years.
Final Thoughts
The Exactech knee and hip implant recall has affected thousands of patients across the country—many of whom are now living with unexpected pain, immobility, and invasive surgeries. If you or a loved one received one of the recalled devices and suffered complications, you may have the right to pursue meaningful financial compensation.
Don’t wait. With statutes of limitations ticking down and cases consolidating in federal court, the time to file is now. Speaking with an experienced attorney can help you protect your health, your rights, and your future.