This post was guest authored by Kristy Arevalo, one of the Inland Empire’s leading medical product liability attorneys. Kristy has litigated major cases involving defective drugs and medical devices, such as DePuy Pinnacle hips, Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters, and Essure birth control. She is dedicated to protecting and informing consumers of their rights when it comes to medical device defects and recall risks.
Imagine discovering that the hip implant you received three years ago is now listed on the FDA’s latest recall notice. You stare at your computer screen in disbelief, feeling your stomach drop as you read about potential complications and device failures. Like thousands of other patients across the country, you find yourself asking: “What does this mean for me? Am I at risk? What are my rights?”
As an attorney here at McCune Law Group (MLG) with more than 20 years of experience representing clients in medical product failure, I have litigated and settled complex mass torts nationwide, including defective drugs and medical devices, and have argued before the California Court of Appeals with multiple verdicts to my credit. If you are reading this because you have discovered your medical implant is part of a 2025 recall, you are not alone. The FDA has significantly increased medical device recalls in 2025, many involving implants patients received years ago. Understanding what this means for your health and your legal rights is crucial.
Why Are We Seeing a Surge in FDA Recalls This Year?
The dramatic increase in FDA medical device recalls in 2025 reflects both improved oversight and the unfortunate reality that many implanted devices were approved without adequate long-term safety data. Several factors contribute to this surge:
- Enhanced post-market surveillance systems that better track device performance.
- Increased reporting from healthcare providers and patients.
- Growing recognition of long-term complications that were not apparent during initial approval processes.
- Manufacturers finally acknowledging design flaws or manufacturing defects.
This surge in FDA recalls does not necessarily mean devices are more dangerous now; it often means we are finally getting a clearer picture of risks that existed all along.
What Types of Medical Implants Are Being Recalled?
The 2025 recalls have affected a wide range of implanted medical devices, including:
- Hip and knee replacements due to metal debris, loosening, or premature wear.
- Hernia mesh products linked to chronic pain, infections, and organ perforation.
- Birth control implants associated with migration, breakage, or hormonal complications.
- Cardiac devices including pacemakers and defibrillators with battery or software issues.
- Spinal hardware prone to fracture or misalignment.
- Breast implants linked to rare cancers or rupture.
How Do I Know If My Implant is Affected?
Determining whether your implant is part of a recall requires specific information:
- Check your medical records: Your surgical records should contain the manufacturer name, model number, and lot number of your implant.
- Contact your surgeon’s office: Your healthcare provider should have this information and may have already received recall notifications.
- Search the FDA database: The FDA maintains a searchable database of all medical device recalls at fda.gov.
- Watch for symptoms: Even if you have not received official notification, new or worsening symptoms could indicate implant problems.
What Should I Do If My Implant Is Recalled?
If you discover your implant is part of a recall, take these immediate steps:
- Do not panic: Not all recalled devices require immediate removal or replacement. Some recalls are precautionary.
- Contact your doctor: Schedule an appointment to discuss your specific situation and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
- Document everything: Keep records of all medical appointments, treatments, and communications related to your implant.
- Understand the recall classification: Class I recalls involve serious risks, while Class II and III recalls may involve less immediate dangers.
What Are My Legal Rights?
Patients with recalled devices may be entitled to compensation, especially when manufacturers fail to warn about risks or design safe products. Your legal rights may include:
- Medical monitoring: Coverage for ongoing medical surveillance even if you have not experienced complications yet.
- Revision surgery costs: Compensation for the expense of implant removal or replacement.
- Lost wages: Recovery for time off work due to medical appointments or procedures.
- Pain and suffering: Damages for physical discomfort and emotional distress.
- Future medical expenses: Coverage for anticipated long-term healthcare needs.
The strength of your legal case often depends on factors such as when the manufacturer knew about defects, whether adequate warnings were provided, and the specific complications you have experienced.
When Should I Consider Legal Action?
Consider consulting with a legal professional if you:
- Have experienced complications requiring additional surgery or treatment.
- Are facing ongoing medical monitoring due to implant risks.
- Have incurred significant medical expenses related to implant problems.
- Are unable to work due to implant-related health issues.
- Received your implant from a manufacturer with a history of recall issues.
Time limits apply to medical device injury claims, so it is important not to delay if you are considering legal action.
Moving Forward: Protecting Your Health and Rights
The surge in FDA recalls in 2025 serves as a stark reminder that patients must be vigilant advocates for their own health. While these recalls can be frightening, they also represent an opportunity for accountability and justice.
If you have a medical implant, whether recalled or not, stay informed about potential risks, maintain regular communication with your healthcare providers, and do not ignore new or unusual symptoms. Most importantly, remember that if you have been harmed by a defective medical device, you have rights.
At McCune Law Group (MLG), my team and I understand the fear and uncertainty that comes with learning your medical implant has been recalled. With a proven record of success, I have secured more than $4 million in multiple settlements for clients harmed by defective DePuy ASR hip implants and obtained a $1.1 million settlement for a client injured by a defective vaccine. My team and I are here to provide compassionate guidance and strong representation, helping you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. You do not have to face this alone; we will stand by your side every step of the way.
