Raymond Gavillet, who claims a failed knee implant operation caused him serious injury, will be heard in a case management conference Oct. 26.
Gavillet filed a product liability suit March 21 against Smith & Nephew, Anderson Hospital and Nurses & Company, alleging that an "Oxinium" orthopedic knee implant operation performed in March 2003, failed.
Implant maker Smith & Nephew of Memphis withdrew Oxinium from the market because of its high failure rate, the complaint states. Gavillet claims that the device was defectively designed.
Even though Gavillet's surgery was performed at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Alton, he is seeking damages against Anderson Hospital in Maryville, claiming Anderson made him engage in physical therapy in spite of the fact the implant was not bonding to his bone.
Gavillet is represented by Aaron Dickey of Edwardsville. In June, Gavillet voluntarily dismissed Nurses & Company from the case.
He claims the implant loosened in the right knee joint causing him to suffer disabling pain and swelling in and around both of his lower limbs.
Gavillet also claims he was required to undergo investigative tests, another knee replacement surgery, and was exposed to an increased risk of infection.
His suit claims he suffered mental anguish and was prevented from working and enjoying the usual pleasures of life. He is seeking damages in excess of $350,000.
Anderson is represented by Jonathan Ries of Sandberg, Phoenix & Von Gontard of St. Louis.
Madison County Circuit Judge Nicholas Byron is assigned to the case.
05 L 283