The Exactech Recall and What Went Wrong
In February 2022, Exactech recalled approximately 147,000 orthopedic implants -- including knee, ankle, and hip replacement components -- after discovering that the outer packaging used for polyethylene inserts had been manufactured out of specification for years. The defective packaging allowed oxygen to penetrate and oxidize the polyethylene, causing the plastic components to become brittle and wear more rapidly than designed.
Patients with recalled Exactech implants face an elevated risk of: premature implant wear; bone loss (osteolysis) from wear debris; implant loosening; pain; and ultimately the need for revision surgery -- a second, more complex, and higher-risk procedure to replace the failed implants.
The Mass Tort Litigation
Mass tort lawsuits against Exactech and its parent company TPG Capital allege the company knew or should have known about the packaging defect years before the recall. Internal quality control records, plaintiffs allege, showed elevated wear rates and premature failures that should have triggered investigation and corrective action far earlier than the 2022 recall.
Cases have been consolidated in MDL proceedings in the Eastern District of New York. Bellwether trials are in preparation. Settlement negotiations are expected to progress as the MDL develops.
Who Qualifies
Patients who received Exactech knee (Optetrak, Vanguard, Truliant), hip, or ankle implants during the applicable period (2004-2022 for many models) and who have experienced symptoms consistent with premature wear -- pain, loosening, instability, or who have had revision surgery -- should consult a mass tort attorney. Medical records identifying the specific implant model and documenting any symptoms or revision surgery are essential.
Status 2026
The Exactech MDL is actively litigating. No global settlement has been announced. Individual case values depend on whether revision surgery has been performed, the difficulty of that surgery, and documented complications. Related: Cobalt Hip Replacement Lawsuit.
How to Get Legal Help
If you believe you qualify based on the eligibility criteria described above, the next step is a free consultation with an experienced attorney. Most plaintiff-side attorneys handling these cases work on contingency -- meaning you pay nothing unless your case results in a recovery. Bring any relevant documentation including receipts, correspondence, or evidence of the harm you experienced.
To stay current on case developments, claim deadlines, and settlement news, bookmark this page and subscribe to LawsuitWatch alerts. Coverage is updated as new court filings, settlement announcements, and eligibility changes are made public.
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Exactech Lawsuit: Knee & Hip Implant Degradation Claims: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this case and your legal options.
Were Exactech implants recalled?
Yes. In February 2022, Exactech recalled approximately 147,000 orthopedic implants due to packaging defects that caused premature oxidation and wear.
Do I need revision surgery for my Exactech implant?
Consult your orthopedic surgeon for imaging and clinical evaluation. Symptoms including increased pain, stiffness, or instability after a previously well-functioning knee or hip replacement warrant evaluation.
Is there an Exactech MDL?
Yes. Exactech cases are consolidated in the Eastern District of New York MDL.
What is my Exactech case worth?
Cases requiring revision surgery with documented complications have the highest values. Consult a mass tort attorney for a case-specific evaluation.
How do I know if I have a recalled Exactech implant?
Contact your orthopedic surgeon who can identify the specific implant used in your surgery from operative records. Exactech also maintains a recall resource at exactech.com.