Knee & Hip Replacement Infection Helpline

The Bair Hugger is a medical device that circulates warm air through a disposable blanket to help patients maintain body temperature during surgery — especially in hip and knee replacement procedures. While commonly used in operating rooms across the U.S., the device has become the focus of thousands of lawsuits claiming it may contribute to post-surgical infections. Plaintiffs allege that the warm air system can disturb sterile air near the surgical site, potentially carrying contaminants that lead to deep joint infections around artificial implants. These infections can be extremely serious, often resulting in prolonged antibiotic treatments, multiple corrective surgeries, and, in the most severe cases, amputation.

The manufacturer, 3M Company, is currently defending against widespread litigation consolidated under Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) No. 2666. As of late 2025, more than 9,000 claims remain active. While some cases have been dismissed for procedural reasons, the broader litigation continues to move forward. Upcoming expert testimony and bellwether trials are expected to play a major role in determining liability and shaping any future settlement negotiations.