In previous Healthfiles articles we have discussed the alleged defects in the DePuy Orthopaedics metal on metal hip replacements and the silicone breast implants manufactured by Poly Implant Prosthese (PIP).
The devices in question remain topical. The hip replacements are the subject of a class action in the Federal Court in Sydney, with NSW based Maurice Blackburn managing principal Ben Slade estimating the value of the Australian damages claim at more than $200 million.
The state of play with respect to the PIP breast implants is less clear. The TGA continues investigation and testing, but testing to date has not identified toxic or irritant chemicals in either the shell of the implant nor the gel. Tests on the strength of the shell and the consistency of the gel have apparently met relevant standards. In the words of the Chief Medical Officer “So far, scientific tests have identified some differences between the PIP breast implants and other brands of silicone breast
