Plaintiffs Seek Creation of MDL Docket for Birmingham Hip Resurfacing, R3 Metal-on-Metal Liner Cases

WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Plaintiffs that have filed complaints relating to Smith & Nephew’s Birmingham Hip Resurfacing and R3 metal-on-metal liner devices have asked the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation to create a coordinated docket for the claims, saying that consolidation will aid judicial efficiency and economy.

According to the Feb. 1 petition filed with the JPML, there are currently 31 actions pending in states across the country involving the devices. The petitioners suggested that the District of Maryland is an appropriate forum, given that it is the home of the oldest-filed case.

The plaintiffs alleged in their complaints that …