Florida Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Attorney

Florida Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Overview

Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits have been filed nationwide by patients who experienced severe complications after receiving Zimmer NexGen Knee Implant, Persona knee replacement model, and other Zimmer knee implants.

The litigation alleges the manufacturer designed defective knee replacement systems that caused premature failure and serious injuries.

Over 1,400 lawsuits have been filed against Zimmer Biomet, with plaintiffs claiming the company failed to adequately warn patients and surgeons about the implants’ high failure rates.

Several FDA warnings have been issued regarding Zimmer knee devices, highlighting patient safety concerns.

Latest Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Updates

• March 2025 – The Zimmer knee replacement multidistrict litigation (MDL) has reached a settlement agreement of $120 million to resolve approximately 300 pending cases. Plaintiffs who experienced device loosening, pain, and required revision surgery within 5 years of implantation may be eligible for compensation between $175,000 and $350,000 depending on injury severity.
• January 2025 – A Florida jury awarded $5.2 million to a plaintiff who required two revision surgeries after their Zimmer Persona knee replacement failed within three years of implantation. The jury found Zimmer Biomet failed to provide adequate warnings about known risks.
• November 2024 – The FDA issued a Class II recall for specific lots of the Zimmer Persona knee replacement system due to reports of early loosening and component separation, affecting approximately 11,500 devices nationwide.
• September 2024 – The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation consolidated all federal Zimmer Persona knee replacement cases into a new MDL in the Northern District of Illinois, joining existing Zimmer NexGen litigation cases.
• July 2024 – Newly published research in the Journal of Arthroplasty found that Zimmer NexGen knee implants demonstrated a 17.5% failure rate within 8 years, significantly higher than the industry average of 3-5%.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to FDA’s MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) database, Zimmer knee replacement devices have accumulated over 84,000 adverse event reports between 2010 and 2024. These reports include:

• 18,700+ reports of device loosening
• 15,400+ reports of persistent pain
• 12,300+ reports requiring revision surgery
• 9,800+ reports of component fracture
• 8,200+ reports of inflammation and tissue damage

The FDA issued safety communications regarding Zimmer knee implants in 2015, 2019, and 2023, each time strengthening warnings about potential complications and recommending closer post-operative monitoring by healthcare providers.

Zimmer Knee Implant Injuries & Side Effects

Patients filing Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits have reported numerous serious complications requiring additional surgeries and extensive medical treatment.

• Persistent Pain: Severe, chronic knee pain that doesn’t improve with time or medication
• Inflammation: Excessive swelling, redness, and warmth around the knee joint
• Device Loosening: Implant components becoming detached from bone, causing instability
• Bone Fractures: Fracturing of bones surrounding the implant site
• Difficulty Walking or Getting Up from a Seated Position: Reduced mobility and function
• Component Failure: Breakage or premature wear of implant components
• Metallosis: Toxic metal debris accumulation in tissues when metal components rub together

According to a 2021 research by the Centeno-Shultz Clinic, the side effects cited in Zimmer knee implant lawsuits include persistent pain, inflammation, and severe mobility limitations requiring revision surgery [1].

Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Zimmer knee lawsuit if:

• You received a Zimmer knee replacement, including the NexGen Knee Implant, Persona knee replacement model, or Exactech Optetrak system
• You experienced complications such as loosening, persistent pain, inflammation, or device failure within 10 years of implantation
• You required revision surgery to remove or replace the failed knee implant
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Zimmer knee replacement
• Your knee replacement surgery occurred after January 2010

The statute of limitations for filing varies by state, making it essential to consult with an attorney specializing in defective medical device and personal injury cases as soon as possible.

Evidence Required for a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit

To build a strong Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit, the following evidence is typically required:

• Medical records documenting your initial knee replacement surgery
• Records showing complications or injuries following implantation
• Doctor’s notes describing the connection between your injuries and the Zimmer device
• Records of any revision surgeries or additional treatments
• Proof of the specific Zimmer knee implant model used (implant sticker page from surgical records)
• Documentation of economic damages (medical bills, lost wages)

Damages You Can Recover

Successful Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits may provide compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Costs for revision surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing care
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for limitations on daily activities and hobbies
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases where the manufacturer displayed gross negligence

Zimmer Knee Replacement Recall Information

In February 2015, Zimmer issued a recall of selected knee replacement components that affected over 11,500 devices. The recall specifically targeted the Persona Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate due to an unacceptably high rate of radiolucent lines and loosening requiring revision surgery.

In October 2021, Zimmer Biomet issued another recall for NexGen Complete Knee Solution MIS Total Knee components due to packaging defects that potentially compromised sterility, affecting approximately 2,700 implants.

Most recently, in November 2024, specific lots of the Zimmer Persona knee replacement system were recalled due to reports of early loosening and component separation, affecting approximately 11,500 devices nationwide.

The FDA classified all these recalls as Class II, indicating that the devices might cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences, with the remote probability of serious adverse health consequences.

Statute of Limitations for Zimmer Knee Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date you discovered or should have reasonably discovered your injury.

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

The “discovery rule” in many states allows the statute of limitations to begin when you discovered or should have reasonably discovered that your injuries were related to a defective Zimmer knee implant, rather than the date of your initial surgery.

Important: These timeframes can be affected by various factors. Consult with a qualified attorney to understand the specific deadline applicable to your situation.

FAQs

1. What Is a Zimmer Knee Implant?

According to the manufacturer, the Zimmer knee implant is a type of medical device utilized in knee replacement surgeries, specifically engineered to ease discomfort and enhance mobility for those suffering from knee joint problems [2]. Zimmer offers several models including NexGen, Persona knee replacement model, and others for patients suffering from severe knee injuries or osteoarthritis.

2. How Do I Know If I Have a Zimmer Knee Implant?

You can determine if you have a Zimmer knee replacement by checking your medical records, surgical reports, or implant card provided after surgery. The documentation should specify the manufacturer (Zimmer or Zimmer Biomet) and the specific model implanted. Your orthopedic surgeon can also confirm this information.

3. What Are the Potential Settlement Amounts for Zimmer Knee Lawsuits?

Settlement amounts for Zimmer knee lawsuits typically range from $150,000 to $550,000, depending on factors such as severity of injuries, extent of medical treatment, need for revision surgery, and documented economic losses. The recent $120 million settlement agreement averages approximately $400,000 per qualified claimant for those requiring revision surgery.

4. How Long Does It Take to Settle a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit?

The typical timeline for resolving a Zimmer knee lawsuit ranges from 18 to 36 months, depending on case complexity and whether it settles before trial. Cases that are part of the multidistrict litigation (MDL) may follow a more structured timeline, with bellwether trials establishing settlement frameworks for similar cases.

5. Can I File a Lawsuit If My Knee Replacement Was Implanted Years Ago?

Yes, you may still qualify to file a Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit even if your surgery occurred years ago. The statute of limitations typically begins when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injuries were related to a defective implant. Many states allow lawsuits to be filed within 2-6 years of this discovery date.

6. Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit?

While technically possible to represent yourself, medical device litigation is extremely complex, involving intricate product liability laws, scientific evidence, and powerful corporate defendants. An experienced defective medical device attorney will have the resources and expertise necessary to effectively pursue your claim against Zimmer Biomet.

7. What If My Doctor Says My Zimmer Knee Is Working Fine, But I’m Experiencing Pain?

If you’re experiencing persistent pain despite your doctor’s assessment, seek a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist, preferably one not affiliated with the hospital where your surgery was performed. Document all symptoms thoroughly and request appropriate imaging studies to evaluate implant positioning and potential loosening.

8. How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer for My Zimmer Knee Case?

Most attorneys handling Zimmer knee replacement cases work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Attorney fees (typically 33-40% of your recovery) are only collected if your case succeeds in obtaining compensation through settlement or verdict.

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

Get A Free Florida Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for defective Zimmer knee implants. Depending on your state, you may have as little as one year from the discovery of your injury to file a claim.

Don’t delay seeking legal guidance if you’ve experienced complications from a Zimmer knee replacement, including the NexGen Knee Implant or Persona knee replacement model. Our experienced attorneys at Schmidt & Clark are ready to help you understand your legal options.

We offer:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Expert evaluation of your specific situation
• Payment only if we win your case

Contact us today to learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

References:

1. https://centenoschultz.com/symptoms-of-a-loose-knee-replacement/
2. https://www.zimmerbiomet.com/en/products-and-solutions/specialties/knee.html