Zimmer NexGen Knee Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Zimmer NexGen Knee Lawsuit Overview

The Zimmer NexGen knee replacement system has been linked to numerous lawsuits alleging implant failure, loosening, and the need for painful revision surgeries.

Primary allegations focus on a design defect in the “high-flex” porous femoral component that attaches to the thigh bone without surgical cement.

Since 2003, more than 150,000 Zimmer NexGen knee implants have been sold, with studies showing alarmingly high failure rates requiring additional surgeries.

Latest Zimmer NexGen Knee Lawsuit Updates

• July 13, 2012 – Nearly a year after a panel of judges consolidated all federal Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits into multidistrict litigation (MDL), lawyers involved with the cases met with the MDL court to discuss upcoming proceedings. Since the initial consolidation in August 2011 that transferred 18 cases to the Northern District of Illinois, more than 440 additional lawsuits have been transferred into the Zimmer NexGen MDL, with nearly 100 complaints filed in the month prior alone.
• July 25, 2012 – A new study identified a disturbing trend of heart attacks among patients who undergo hip or knee replacement procedures, particularly in the days and weeks immediately following surgery. The heart attack risk was found to be some 30 times higher during the first two weeks after the operation, raising questions about what – if anything – doctors may be able to do to reduce the danger of hip and knee implant surgeries [1].

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to research from the National Institute of Health, total knee arthroplasty is a common procedure with extremely good clinical results overall. Despite this general success, studies indicate it produces 20% unsatisfactory results [2].

The NIH has reported that osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease affecting a significant portion of the population aged 65 or older, with a prevalence higher than 30% in the United States.

In March 2010, data was presented by a group of knee surgeons showing that nearly 9% of patients examined after two years required revision knee surgery, and 36% showed signs of replacement knee loosening.

Looking at the epidemiologic data, 10% to 15% of the general population present dermatologic symptoms caused by metal hypersensitivity. – National Institute of Health.

Zimmer NexGen Knee Injuries & Side Effects

The Zimmer NexGen CR and Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex Porous Femoral components have been associated with numerous serious complications requiring medical intervention.

• Knee Replacement Failure
• Knee Replacement Revision Surgery

Do You Qualify for a Zimmer NexGen Knee Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Zimmer NexGen knee lawsuit if:

• You received a Zimmer NexGen knee implant, particularly the CR or CR-Flex Porous Femoral component
• You experienced complications such as implant loosening, failure, or pain
• You required revision surgery to correct problems with the knee implant
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Zimmer NexGen knee replacement

Evidence Required for a Zimmer NexGen Knee Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a Zimmer NexGen knee lawsuit, you will need:

• Medical records documenting your original knee replacement surgery
• Documentation confirming the specific Zimmer NexGen model implanted
• Medical records detailing complications, pain, or loosening
• Records of any revision surgeries performed
• Expert medical testimony linking your complications to the implant design

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation in a Zimmer NexGen knee lawsuit may include:

• Medical expenses for revision surgeries and treatments
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Zimmer NexGen Knee Design Issues

At issue is a “high-flex” porous femoral component that attaches to the bottom of the thigh bone. In most knee replacement systems, a type of surgical cement is used to hold the component in place.

However, the NexGen CR-Flex does not use cement to keep it in position. Surgeons say that this may lead to a loosening of the component that requires revision surgery.

It appears that the manufacturer was aware of the risk of problems with Zimmer NexGen knee replacements, yet failed to take adequate steps to reduce the risk of injury or warn consumers.

Financial compensation may be available through a Zimmer NexGen knee lawsuit if one of these knee replacements resulted in loosening, failure, or other knee complications.

Statute of Limitations for Zimmer NexGen Knee Lawsuits

Time limits for filing a Zimmer NexGen knee lawsuit vary by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date you discovered or should have reasonably discovered your injury was related to the defective implant.

Consulting with an experienced product liability attorney promptly is essential to ensure your legal rights are protected before these deadlines expire.

Related Articles:

• Hip Implant Failure Cases
• Precice Stryde Implant Lawsuit
• Zimmer Durom Hip & Knee Implants Data

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What evidence is needed to support a Zimmer NexGen knee replacement lawsuit?

Evidence includes medical records documenting the knee replacement surgery and complications, proof of the specific implant used, expert medical testimony linking the implant to the complications, and documentation of related expenses and losses.

2. What compensation can be sought in a Zimmer NexGen knee replacement lawsuit?

Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and costs for revision surgery or additional treatments. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if gross negligence is proven.

3. Can a Zimmer NexGen knee replacement lawsuit lead to changes in implant safety standards?

Yes, successful lawsuits and the uncovering of defects can lead to changes in safety standards, increased scrutiny, and improvements in manufacturing practices to enhance patient protection.

4. How long does it typically take to resolve a Zimmer NexGen knee lawsuit?

The timeline varies depending on case complexity, with MDL proceedings potentially lasting several years. Individual settlements may be reached earlier, while cases proceeding to trial typically take longer to resolve.

5. If I had a Zimmer NexGen knee implant but haven’t experienced problems yet, can I still file a lawsuit?

Generally, you would need to have experienced actual complications or injuries to have legal standing for a lawsuit. However, you should monitor your condition closely and consult with a physician about any concerns.

6. Are there any class action lawsuits for Zimmer NexGen knee replacements?

Rather than class actions, Zimmer NexGen cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL), which allows each case to maintain its individual merits while sharing pretrial proceedings for efficiency.

7. What is the difference between the Zimmer NexGen CR and CR-Flex components?

The CR-Flex was designed to provide greater range of motion compared to the standard CR component. The non-cemented porous coating on these components has been associated with higher rates of loosening and failure.

8. What should I do if I suspect my Zimmer NexGen knee implant is failing?

Seek immediate medical attention to evaluate the implant and document any issues. Then, consult with an experienced product liability attorney who specializes in medical device litigation to understand your legal options.

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

Get A Free Zimmer NexGen Knee Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Zimmer NexGen knee implant injuries. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury or discovery to file a claim, and these deadlines vary significantly by jurisdiction.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our legal representation
• Payment only if we win your case