Recalls & Lawsuits Regarding Zimmer Knee Implants
Knee implants are a reality for many Americans who may have lost some form of knee function due to various reasons such as inflammation, old age or injury due to repetitive motion.
Zimmer knee implants have been used since 1994, and millions of people have had the procedure done. Over the last couple of decades, this company has been in the line of fire after its knee implants have failed, causing serious life-threatening complications throughout the country.
Have you been injured due to a defective Zimmer knee implant? You may have a legal claim to recover money damages. Please call our attorneys today at 1-877-659-2580 for a free consultation.
How Zimmer Implants Work
Zimmer knee implants work by attaching to the bone without cement. This is done to promote osseointegration, a process which encourages the body to grow bony tissue in order to help the implant fuse to the bone naturally.
While osseointegration may sound like a good idea, the fact that cement isn’t used makes it more likely for the implant to move and settle elsewhere, causing excruciating pain over a period of many months and years.
FDA Zimmer Implant Recalls
Over the years, the FDA has only issued partial recalls of this device, much to the chagrin of its users. In 2010, the government body issued a partial recall involving the LPS Femoral Component as well as the LPS Flex Gender Femoral Component, citing issues with these implants’ non-conforming internal CAM radius.
Knee implants are supposed to last 15 years; however, many Zimmer knee implants reportedly only last 3 years. In addition, a study by Richard Berger and Craig Della Valle (from Rush University Medical Center) showed that up to 36 percent of all Zimmer implants dislodge and become loose within the first two years of the knee surgery.
Here are some of the complications associated with Zimmer knee implants:
- Severe joint pain
- Allergic reactions
- Nerve damage
- Bone fractures
- Bone loss
- Systemic infection
- Reduced range of motion
- Fluid collection
Following the FDA recalls, many people are left wondering where to turn for help since surgery for removal and replacement with another knee implant can be costly and put you out of work for some time.
Consumer Lawsuits
According to many product liability attorneys, it could be argued that Zimmer Holdings, Inc. did not carry out extensive tests on its implants before sending them to the FDA for approval. It can also be argued that they engaged in negligent marketing, including failing to warn end users about some of the risks associated with having this knee implant.
Complications associated with defective knee implants can set you back in life both financially and physically. Thankfully, you may have legal options available to you.
By filing a product liability claim, your attorney may be able to recover money damages from Zimmer to pay for your pain and suffering, as well as to cover the cost of replacing the knee implant. Call us at 1-877-659-2580 for more information on whether or not you may qualify for compensation.
