Alaska Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

Quick Summary

• Litigation Process Clarification: The Alaska Zimmer knee lawsuit process involves complex litigation steps from filing to potential settlement or trial. This guide aims to demystify these steps, ensuring you understand the legal journey ahead, including key deadlines and procedural requirements specific to Alaska.
• Determining Eligibility for the Lawsuit: Understanding whether you’re eligible to join the lawsuit is critical. Eligibility often depends on the specifics of your case, such as the type of complications experienced (like premature implant loosening), the timing of the implant surgery, and the direct impact on your health. This guide will help you evaluate these factors.
• Insights into Potential Compensation: For those affected in Alaska, compensation might cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. This guide offers insights into assessing the potential value of your claim, influenced by the extent of the injury and the precedent set by similar cases in Alaska and beyond.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a faulty knee implant, it’s crucial to have an experienced team by your side. We at S&C Law Firm specialize in helping clients like you organize their claims and seek settlements without the burden of costly litigation.

By guiding you through the process of:

• Sending demand letters to the manufacturer
• Gathering necessary evidence
• Negotiating with insurance companies

Our legal expertise extends to advising on appropriate steps to take after experiencing complications from a Zimmer knee implant.

Zimmer Knee Lawsuit

The Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit revolves around the Zimmer knee implants, which have been recalled and sued due to issues such as premature loosening, poor fixation, and other complications.

These issues have resulted in significant distress and discomfort for patients, often requiring additional surgeries.

What Is a Zimmer Knee Implant?

According to the manufacturer, Zimmer’s knee implant is also known as Zimmer Biomet’s Oxford Partial Knee. It is a clinically proven partial knee replacement system designed to replace only the damaged portion of the knee, typically caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis or avascular necrosis affecting the medial compartment [1].

The implant, which is first implanted and secured in place using surgical cement, aims to have surgeons restore knee function while minimizing the need for more invasive total knee replacement procedures.

According to its design, the Zimmer Oxford Partial Knee promises less pain, more natural motion, and a faster recovery compared to total knee replacements.

It’s even said that patients with the Oxford Partial Knee implant tend to return to sports more often and may experience a higher level of satisfaction as they are more likely to forget about their artificial joint in daily life.

What Is Wrong With The Zimmer Knee Implants

Premature loosening is what is wrong with the Zimmer knee implants, particularly those implanted in the Persona model, which has led to patients experiencing pain, infection, and inflammation, often requiring additional revision surgery.

Due to these serious complications, Zimmer initiated a voluntary recall of the Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate, an essential component of their Persona knee implants. The rate of complaints received about the Zimmer Persona Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate was estimated at 6 per 1,000 devices implanted, contributing to the recall decision.

According to BMJ, approximately 36% of patients with problematic Zimmer knee implants reported symptoms necessitating revision surgery, with the implants prone to loosen within two years post-operatively [2].

Premature loosening of the Zimmer Persona Knee implant has been a significant concern, leading to limited mobility and the need for early revision surgery. Reports of these implants loosening prematurely prompted a recall due to complications such as bone damage and pain.

Diagnosing aseptic total knee arthroplasty (TKA) loosening remains a challenge, with poor bone fixation indicated by radiolucent lines on X-rays, signaling potential implant failure. These technical issues often necessitate complete revision surgery.

Reasons Behind The Recall

The issues with Zimmer knee implants led to a significant step – a recall. In March 2015, Zimmer Persona Knee components were recalled due to an increased number of patients experiencing implant loosening, chronic pain, and early device failure.

Recalls of knee replacement devices, including Zimmer models, have been issued due to issues such as loosening, early wear, packaging errors, and co-mingled components.

This Class II recall has contributed to the growing number of patients filing lawsuits over Zimmer knee implant failure. It’s a clear acknowledgment of the serious issues with these knee and hip implants that have caused distress and pain for countless patients.

The FDA, responsible for ensuring medical device safety, announced the Zimmer Persona Knee implant recall in March 2015, withdrawing thousands of medical devices from the market.

Main Side Effects Named In The Lawsuits

According to the National Institute of Health 2018 research, lawsuits involving Zimmer knee replacements and hip implants cite serious medical complications such as [3]:

• Chronic pain
• Osteolysis
• Joint damage
• Limited mobility

Moreover, revision surgeries to address Zimmer knee implant defects or complications can lead to additional risks like increased pain, swelling, and surgical infections. Complications from Zimmer knee implant failures have also included bone loss and fractures in patients.

How Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit?

You qualify for a Zimmer for knee replacement lawsuit by having undergone knee replacement surgery in 2011 or later and experiencing early failure rates with your knee replacement.

Qualification for a lawsuit may also depend on whether the patient received the Exactech Optetrak knee implant in 2011 or later or had revision surgery to replace it when it was less than eight years old.

Individuals who received a Zimmer Persona Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate knee implant and suffered injuries caused by this defective device may qualify to file a lawsuit.

Also, potential plaintiffs in knee implant lawsuits must have experienced specific complications, such as implant loosing, knee pain, instability, balancing issues, reduced range of motion, or difficulty walking.

Thousands of people have filed knee replacement lawsuits in recent years — most of which claim the devices loosened because of a design defect or other flaw. – Dr. Aimee Hachigian-Gould, Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

The Status Of The Zimmer Knee Implant Litigation in Alaska

As of 2023, there are 1,300 Zimmer NexGen knee product liability lawsuits pending throughout the United States, including Alaska, with potential additional victims at risk of losing their rights due to the statute of limitations.

These lawsuits involve claims that certain configurations of the Zimmer NexGen artificial hip and knee replacements and systems are defective and prone to failure within a few years, causing pain and requiring additional surgery.

Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer has identified six cases for the “initial tranche” of Zimmer NexGen bellwether trials, which serve as test cases to help determine the potential value of the claims. These trials are key precursors for settlement talks and reflect the ongoing nature of this litigation.

Zimmer Knee Lawsuit Average Settlement Amounts in Alaska

Potential settlement amounts naturally arise when discussing Zimmer knee lawsuits. Based on past cases, the average settlement for faulty knee replacement, which includes Zimmer implants, is around $200,000 per patient.

However, the value of a Zimmer knee implant lawsuit in Alaska will depend on the extent of the damages experienced, including:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

Filing a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit in Alaska

If you qualify for a Zimmer knee lawsuit, the next step is filing the lawsuit. Preparing for a lawsuit requires the collection of all medical records related to Zimmer’s knee implant surgery, including operative reports and post-operative notes.

It’s also essential to maintain a detailed journal documenting the timeline and nature of complications experienced following the Zimmer knee replacement surgery.

Photographic evidence of any visible complications, such as swelling or changes in leg appearance, can also support your claim. And perhaps most importantly, you should establish and maintain clear communication with your legal team to provide them with all the necessary information to strengthen your case.

Types of Evidence To Present

When you’re filing a Zimmer knee lawsuit, it’s crucial to have the right evidence. Clients should be prepared to assist their lawyers with evidence gathering, which may involve:

• Explaining the history of the implant
• Providing any documentation related to the implant surgery
• Describing any complications experienced
• Providing medical records and test results related to the implant

Such evidence can include:

• Medical records.
• A detailed journal of complications.
• Photographic evidence of visible issues.

This evidence not only reinforces your claim but also helps your attorney understand your case better, ensuring they can represent you effectively.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for the Zimmer Implant Lawsuit In Alaska?

The statute of limitations for the Zimmer implant lawsuit in Alaska is typically two years from the date the injury occurred or from when the injury could have reasonably been discovered.

This legal timeframe is, of course, crucial for anyone considering a lawsuit for medical malpractice related to Zimmer knee implants.

However, there are exceptions to this rule. A statute of repose in Alaska prevents the filing of a medical malpractice lawsuit more than ten years after the date of the medical error, irrespective of when the harm was discovered, save for exceptional circumstances such as a foreign object left in the body.

How Much Is The Zimmer Implant Lawsuit Worth in Alaska?

The worth of a Zimmer implant lawsuit in Alaska depends on many factors. These can include the severity of complications, the extent of medical expenses, and lost wages, among others.

While the average settlement for faulty knee replacement, including Zimmer implants, is around $200,000 per patient based on past cases, it’s important to remember that each case is unique.

Factors such as the degree of personal injury done, the impact on quality of life, and the need for future medical care can influence the value of a Zimmer knee implant lawsuit in Alaska.

FAQs

What impact can a Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit have on future medical care?

A successful lawsuit can provide compensation for future medical care related to the knee replacement complications, helping ensure you receive the necessary treatments.

How do contingency fees work in Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits?

Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. The attorney’s fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or judgment.

Can I pursue a Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit if I have already settled with my insurance company?

It depends on the terms of the settlement with your insurance company. Consult with an attorney to determine if you can still pursue a lawsuit against Zimmer Biomet.

What should I do if I am contacted by the media about my Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit?

Refer all media inquiries to your attorney. Avoid discussing your case with the media without legal advice, as public statements could impact your case.

Related Articles:

• Hip Implant Failure Cases
• Alabama Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Attorney
• Zimmer Durom Hip & Knee Implants Data

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

Get Your Free Consultation From Alaska Zimmer Knee Implant Lawyers

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP we stand by your side during these trying times. Should you or someone close to you suffer from the repercussions of Zimmer’s knee implant surgery, reach out to us without delay.

Our seasoned attorneys are well-versed in such cases and will guide you every step of the legal journey. We are committed to providing clear insight into your legal options and determining your qualification for a Zimmer knee implant lawsuit.

Our initial consultation is, of course, offered at no cost. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we earn our fee only if we win your case. Contact us for a comprehensive review of your case concerning Zimmer knee implant complications.

Reference:

1. https://www.zimmerbiomet.com/en/products-and-solutions/specialties/knee/oxford-partial-knee.html
2. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/10/7/e028915
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5813428/