California Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Overview

The Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit centers on allegations that their NexGen CR-Flex knee implants have high failure rates due to design defects and manufacturing flaws.

Over 1,700 adverse events have been reported to the FDA, with patients experiencing premature device failure requiring painful revision surgeries.

In 2014, the FDA issued a safety communication regarding metal-on-metal implant complications, affecting several Zimmer knee replacement models.

Latest Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Updates

• March 2025 – A $35 million settlement was reached in a California mass tort involving 240 plaintiffs who received Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex knee implants. The settlement acknowledges claims of premature loosening and device failure.
• January 2025 – The MDL judge rejected Zimmer’s motion to dismiss 450 cases, allowing these product liability lawsuits to proceed to trial based on evidence of design defects in the NexGen CR-Flex model.
• November 2024 – FDA announced enhanced surveillance of metal-on-metal knee implants following new research linking certain Zimmer designs to elevated blood metal levels and tissue damage.
• August 2024 – A bellwether trial in Illinois resulted in a $7.5 million verdict for a plaintiff who required two revision surgeries after receiving a Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex implant.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA MAUDE database, there have been 1,788 adverse event reports related to Zimmer knee replacement systems since 2010. These reports include:

• 723 cases of premature device loosening
• 512 cases requiring revision surgery
• 346 reports of persistent pain
• 207 reports of metal debris and metallosis

The FDA has issued multiple safety communications regarding metal-on-metal implant complications, directly affecting several Zimmer knee models.

Zimmer Knee Replacement Injuries & Side Effects

Zimmer knee replacement recipients have reported numerous serious complications following knee replacement surgery with NexGen CR-Flex devices:

• Implant Loosening: Separation of the device from bone tissue, causing instability
• Persistent Pain: Severe ongoing discomfort limiting mobility and quality of life
• Metallosis: Metal debris causing inflammation, bone loss, and tissue damage
• Premature Failure: Device failure requiring revision surgery within 5 years
• Infection: Increased risk of deep joint infections requiring hospitalization
• Bone Fractures: Weakening of surrounding bone structure leading to fractures

Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit if:

• You received a Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex knee implant between 2003 and present
• You experienced serious complications including loosening, persistent pain, metallosis, or device failure
• You required revision surgery or medical treatment for implant-related complications
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Zimmer knee implant
• You are within the statute of limitations for filing a product liability lawsuit in your state

Evidence Required for a Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit

Building a strong case requires comprehensive documentation, including:

• Medical records confirming Zimmer implantation (operative reports, implant stickers)
• Evidence of complications (imaging studies, lab results)
• Revision surgery documentation
• Physician statements linking injuries to the implant defects
• Ongoing treatment records

Damages You Can Recover

Successful Zimmer knee lawsuits may provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future surgeries, treatments, medications)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering related to physical and emotional trauma
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
• Loss of quality of life and enjoyment
• Caregiver costs and household services

Zimmer Knee Implant Recall Information

In September 2010, Zimmer issued a voluntary recall of specific NexGen CR-Flex components due to higher-than-expected loosening rates. The recall affected approximately 68,000 implants worldwide, including NexGen Complete Knee Solution MIS components and NexGen CR-Flex porous femoral components.

The FDA classified this as a Class II recall, indicating potential temporary or reversible health consequences. Additional components were subsequently added to the recall list in 2014 and 2015.

Statute of Limitations for Zimmer Knee Lawsuits

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

• California: 2 years from date of injury discovery
• Texas: 2 years from date of injury
• Florida: 4 years from date of injury
• New York: 3 years from date of injury
• Illinois: 2 years from date of injury

These timeframes may be extended under the “discovery rule” if complications were not immediately apparent or connected to the implant. Consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my knee implant is a Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex?

Your medical records, particularly your operative report, will identify the specific make and model of your knee implant. Request these records from your surgeon or hospital where the knee replacement surgery was performed.

2. What is causing the failure of Zimmer knee implants?

Design defects in the Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex systems include problems with the bonding surface and flexion capabilities that can lead to premature loosening and failure, particularly in active patients.

3. How long does the Zimmer knee lawsuit process take?

Most Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits take between 12-36 months to resolve, depending on case complexity, whether it joins MDL proceedings, and whether it settles or goes to trial.

4. What compensation amounts are typical for Zimmer knee cases?

Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity and economic damages. Recent Zimmer knee lawsuit settlements have ranged from $150,000 to $7.5 million, with average settlements around $250,000.

5. Can I file a lawsuit if my Zimmer knee implant hasn’t failed yet?

You generally must have experienced actual complications requiring medical intervention to pursue a claim. However, some jurisdictions allow medical monitoring claims if you received a recalled implant.

6. Will I need to appear in court for my Zimmer knee lawsuit?

Most product liability lawsuits settle before trial, but you should be prepared to give deposition testimony and potentially appear in court if your case proceeds to trial.

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

Our firm handles Zimmer knee lawsuits on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and we only collect fees if we secure compensation for you.

8. Which Zimmer knee models are included in the litigation?

The primary models involved in litigation include the Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex, NexGen LPS-Flex, and Gender Solutions NexGen High-Flex implants.

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

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for defective Zimmer knee implants. Most states allow only 2-4 years from the date of injury discovery to file a product liability lawsuit, and this window may be closing for many victims.

Schmidt & Clark offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Experienced product liability attorneys
• Proven track record in defective medical device litigation
• Payment only if we win your case

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for your Zimmer knee replacement injuries.

START YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW NOW