Exactech Implant Recall Lawsuit

Did Your Exactech Implant Fail Early?

Patients who received recalled Exactech knee, hip, or ankle replacements may be eligible for compensation for premature wear, bone loss, and revision surgery. A federal MDL is consolidating cases; a bankruptcy trust structure is now being negotiated.

1,500+

Cases Consolidated in Federal MDL 3044 (E.D.N.Y.)*

Source: U.S. District Court, E.D.N.Y., MDL 3044 docket, 2026

Get Your Case Review →

Exactech Implant Recalls: What You Need to Know

Beginning in August 2021, Exactech issued a series of recalls for polyethylene inserts used in its knee, ankle, and hip replacement systems. The company announced that the vacuum-sealed packaging used for these inserts was defective, allowing oxygen to reach the plastic and degrade it before implantation.

As a result, plaintiffs allege, affected inserts experienced accelerated oxidation, premature wear, component fracture, and osteolysis (bone loss around the implant). Many patients required early revision surgery - a second major operation to remove and replace the failing device.

The recalls expanded to cover Optetrak, Optetrak Logic, Truliant, and Vantage knee and ankle systems, and later expanded to include certain Connexion GXL hip liners. Combined, the recalls affect more than 140,000 devices implanted in U.S. patients.

Cases were consolidated into MDL 3044 (In re: Exactech Polyethylene Orthopedic Products Liability Litigation) in the Eastern District of New York. In 2025, Exactech filed for bankruptcy protection. Bellwether trials were paused while an asset-transfer plan and a claimant trust structure are negotiated.

140K+

Recalled Exactech polyethylene inserts implanted in U.S. patients

Exactech recall notices

MDL 3044

Federal multidistrict litigation, Eastern District of New York

U.S. JPML

2021

First recall date (Optetrak, Truliant, Vantage knee and ankle inserts)

Exactech, August 2021

Active

Bankruptcy trust structure being negotiated (2025-2026)

Court filings

⏰ Act Promptly: With Exactech in bankruptcy, claim deadlines tied to the bankruptcy reorganization may apply in addition to state statutes of limitations. Missing a trust-formation bar date can extinguish your right to recover. Consult an attorney promptly.

Do You Qualify? Common Eligibility Criteria

Every case is unique and requires individual attorney review. Individuals who may have a viable Exactech claim typically meet criteria similar to the following:

✓ You May Qualify If You:

Received an Exactech knee, hip, or ankle replacement - including Optetrak, Optetrak Logic, Truliant, Vantage, or Connexion GXL
Experienced premature implant failure, component loosening, or fracture
Required or are facing revision surgery to remove or replace the device
Developed osteolysis (bone loss) around the implant
Experienced chronic pain, instability, or reduced mobility attributed to the implant
Your implant is on the recall list (an attorney can help confirm this)
Within the applicable statute of limitations and any bankruptcy-related bar date

Products Named in the Recall

The recalls cover polyethylene inserts used in: Optetrak and Optetrak Logic knee systems; Truliant knee system; Vantage total ankle; and certain Connexion GXL acetabular (hip) liners. Not every Exactech implant is recalled - an attorney can help confirm whether your specific device is covered, using your surgery records and implant serial numbers.

Why Early Revision Matters

Revision surgery is generally more complex and higher-risk than the original joint replacement because bone stock may be reduced, particularly when osteolysis has occurred. Many plaintiffs report prolonged recovery, additional surgeries, chronic pain, and lasting functional limitations. Documented early revision is a key fact in the MDL.

Bankruptcy Status

Exactech filed for bankruptcy in 2025. The MDL was effectively paused while a plan for asset transfer to lenders and a claimant trust is negotiated. Claims against the company may ultimately be paid through a bankruptcy trust rather than through conventional MDL settlement - similar in structure to many asbestos and medical-device bankruptcies. Bar dates for filing claims against the trust may be set; missing those dates can bar recovery.

Why Choose UnitedClaimsBureau?

UCB connects injury victims with experienced mass tort attorneys at no upfront cost. Here is what to expect when you work with us.

Medical Device Experience

Your information is forwarded to attorneys experienced in orthopedic device product liability, MDL practice, and bankruptcy claim procedures.

Contingency Representation

All affiliated attorneys work on a contingency fee basis - attorney fees apply only if your case results in a recovery.*

Bankruptcy-Aware Representation

Because Exactech is in bankruptcy, claim procedures and deadlines differ from a typical MDL. Our network attorneys understand both tracks.

Dedicated Case Support

A dedicated case specialist will guide you through every step, from initial inquiry through attorney connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Exactech implants are part of the recall?

The recalls cover polyethylene inserts in the Optetrak, Optetrak Logic, and Truliant knee systems; the Vantage total ankle system; and certain Connexion GXL acetabular (hip) liners. An attorney can help confirm whether your specific device is covered based on your surgery records and implant serial numbers.

What went wrong with the implants?

Exactech announced that the vacuum-sealed packaging for polyethylene inserts was defective, allowing oxygen to reach the plastic before implantation. This pre-implantation oxidation allegedly caused accelerated wear, component fracture, osteolysis (bone loss), and premature implant failure once the device was in the body.

What if I still have the implant and it hasn't failed yet?

Many current plaintiffs have already undergone revision surgery, but some claims can be evaluated before revision - especially if you are experiencing symptoms, imaging shows wear or loosening, or your surgeon has recommended revision. An attorney can advise on how the status of your implant affects your claim.

How does the bankruptcy affect my claim?

Exactech filed for bankruptcy in 2025. This generally means claims will be resolved through a bankruptcy trust or structured settlement rather than through traditional MDL verdicts. Trust-formation typically includes a deadline (a 'bar date') to file proofs of claim - missing it can extinguish your right to recover. Bankruptcy-aware representation is important.

What compensation is available?

Recoveries may cover medical costs for revision surgery and related care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in appropriate cases, additional damages. Reported estimates from bankruptcy planning have been in the $50,000 to $300,000+ range per qualifying case, depending on severity and medical history - but no amount is guaranteed, and final trust terms are still being finalized.

How long do I have to file?

There are two relevant deadlines: your state's statute of limitations for product-liability claims, and any bar date set by the bankruptcy court for filing claims against the trust. Both can be strict - consult an attorney promptly to protect your rights.

Do I need to stop using the implant to file?

No. Filing a claim does not require surgery or implant removal. Many plaintiffs are still living with a failing or failed implant while their case proceeds. Your attorney will help coordinate documentation with your surgeon as needed.

How much does it cost to pursue a claim?

UnitedClaimsBureau works with attorneys on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. Attorney fees are only paid if your case results in a recovery.*

Time-Sensitive: Bankruptcy Deadlines Apply

If you received a recalled Exactech implant and needed (or may need) revision surgery, time is critical. A confidential case review places no obligation on you.

Start Your Case Review