Zimmer Biomet Shoulder Replacement Lawsuit 2025 Update

If you or a loved one experienced severe pain, bone fractures, implant failure, or revision surgery following a Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacement, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective shoulder implants. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Zimmer Biomet Lawsuit Overview

The Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacement lawsuits involve allegations of design defects in the Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System.

Plaintiffs claim the device has an unreasonably high fracture rate, leading to painful revision surgeries and permanent shoulder damage.

Over 3,000 adverse event reports have been filed with the FDA, and the device has been subject to a Class I recall, the most serious type of recall.

Latest Zimmer Biomet Lawsuit Updates

• February 2025 – A $28.5 million settlement has been reached in a multi-district litigation involving 1,250 plaintiffs who received the Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System. The settlement provides compensation based on injury severity and revision surgery requirements.
• December 2024 – The FDA has issued additional safety warnings regarding the Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System, highlighting the elevated risk of fracture compared to similar devices.
• October 2024 – A federal judge in Colorado ruled that Zimmer Biomet failed to adequately warn surgeons about the known risks of device failure, allowing hundreds of cases to proceed to trial.
• August 2024 – Medical research published in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery confirmed a 15.4% failure rate for the Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System, more than three times higher than comparable devices.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s MAUDE database, there have been 3,542 adverse event reports related to the Zimmer Biomet Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System since 2019. These reports include:

• 1,876 reports of device fracture
• 985 reports of required revision surgery
• 428 reports of bone fracture
• 253 reports of permanent shoulder function loss

The FDA issued a Class I recall for the device in February 2017, stating that the device was “fracturing at a higher rate than stated in the labeling,” potentially leading to “permanent loss of shoulder function, infection, or rarely, death.”

Zimmer Biomet Injuries & Side Effects

Patients implanted with the Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System have reported numerous serious complications requiring medical intervention.

• Implant Fracture: Device components breaking within the body, requiring emergency revision surgery
• Bone Fracture: Damage to surrounding bone structures, often requiring complex reconstruction
• Metallosis: Metal debris causing tissue damage, inflammation, and systemic toxicity
• Permanent Shoulder Dysfunction: Limited range of motion, chronic pain, and inability to perform daily activities
• Infection: Heightened risk of deep tissue infections requiring antibiotics and additional surgeries

Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Biomet Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacement lawsuit if:

• You received a Zimmer Biomet Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System between 2008 and 2025
• You experienced complications such as device fracture, bone fracture, or implant failure
• You required revision surgery to remove or replace the defective implant
• You can provide medical documentation of your shoulder replacement and subsequent complications
• You are within your state’s statute of limitations for filing a product liability claim

Evidence Required for a Zimmer Biomet Lawsuit

To build a strong case, you will need to gather:

• Medical records confirming your Zimmer Biomet shoulder implant
• Documentation of complications and injuries related to the device
• Surgical reports from any revision procedures
• Treatment records for ongoing complications
• Physician statements linking your injuries to the defective device

Damages You Can Recover

Successful plaintiffs in Zimmer Biomet shoulder lawsuits may be entitled to compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses related to revision surgeries and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Zimmer Biomet Recall Information

The Zimmer Biomet Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder System was subject to a Class I FDA recall in February 2017. Details include:

• Recall Number: Z-2433-2017
• Product Codes: KWS, PAO
• Lot Numbers: All lots and models 115340, 115341, 115342, 115343, 115344
• Manufacturing Dates: October 2008 to September 2015
• Distribution Dates: October 2008 to September 2015
• Reason for Recall: Higher than expected fracture rate leading to revision surgeries and potential serious injuries

The recall affected approximately 3,662 devices distributed nationwide. Zimmer Biomet sent urgent medical device recalls to all affected healthcare facilities, advising surgeons to closely monitor patients with these implants.

Statute of Limitations for Zimmer Biomet Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacement lawsuit varies by state:

• Most states allow 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of injury
• Some states extend this period for defective medical devices
• The discovery rule may apply if you recently discovered your injuries were caused by the defective implant

It’s critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe. Waiting too long may permanently bar you from seeking compensation.

Related Articles:

• Zimmer NexGen Knee Replacement Lawsuit
• Zimmer Persona Knee Recall Lawsuit
• Zimmer Hip Replacement Lawsuit

See all related medical device lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. How do I know if I have a Zimmer Biomet shoulder implant?

Your surgical records and implant identification card should specify the exact make and model of your shoulder replacement device. If you’re unsure, contact your orthopedic surgeon or the hospital where your procedure was performed. They maintain records of all implanted medical devices.

2. What is the success rate of Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacement lawsuits?

Recent litigation has resulted in significant settlements, with the average compensation ranging from $70,000 to $250,000 depending on injury severity. The $28.5 million settlement in February 2025 provided compensation to 1,250 plaintiffs, with higher amounts awarded to those requiring multiple revision surgeries.

3. How long does the lawsuit process take?

Most Zimmer Biomet shoulder lawsuits take between 12-24 months to resolve. Complex cases involving severe injuries or multiple plaintiffs may take longer. However, settlements can sometimes be reached within 6-12 months if the evidence clearly establishes liability.

4. Can I still file a lawsuit if my implant hasn’t failed yet?

Yes, you may still qualify for compensation if you have a recalled Zimmer Biomet shoulder implant that hasn’t yet failed. Medical monitoring claims can provide compensation for the costs of regular check-ups and the psychological distress of having a potentially defective device.

5. What is the difference between individual lawsuits and class actions?

Individual lawsuits allow you to pursue compensation specific to your unique injuries and circumstances. Class actions combine similar cases into one legal proceeding, typically resulting in standardized compensation. Most Zimmer Biomet cases proceed as individual lawsuits or are consolidated into multi-district litigation (MDL).

6. Will I have to go to court?

Most Zimmer Biomet shoulder lawsuits are settled before trial. However, our legal team prepares every case as if it will go to trial to ensure we’re in the strongest position for negotiations. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are fully prepared to present your case to a jury.

7. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a Zimmer Biomet lawsuit?

Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only collect a fee if we win your case or secure a settlement. This arrangement ensures everyone has access to quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.

8. What is the life expectancy of a Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacement?

The failure rate for Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacements is about 15% per year. This means that 45% fail within 3 years, 60% within 5 years, and so on. This rate is significantly higher than the 5% five-year failure rate considered acceptable for shoulder implants.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Zimmer Biomet shoulder replacement injuries. Most states only allow 2-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this deadline may have already begun counting down.

Schmidt & Clark offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Decades of experience with defective medical device litigation

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for your suffering and medical expenses.

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