Maryland Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Overview

Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits center around allegations that the company’s knee implants, including Persona and NexGen models, were defectively designed and manufactured.

Thousands of patients have reported premature device failure, severe pain, and complications requiring revision surgery.

The FDA has issued multiple safety communications regarding these devices, and Zimmer has faced numerous product liability claims related to their knee replacement systems.

Latest Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Updates

• March 2025 – A global settlement of $375 million has been proposed to resolve approximately 5,400 Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits nationwide. The settlement would cover patients who required revision surgery due to implant failure within 10 years of the original procedure.
• January 2025 – The MDL judge overseeing federal Zimmer knee implant cases has denied the manufacturer’s motion for summary judgment, ruling that sufficient evidence exists for plaintiffs to proceed with product liability claims alleging design defects in the Persona and NexGen systems.
• November 2024 – New scientific study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that Zimmer NexGen knee replacements had a 17.6% failure rate within 7 years of implantation, significantly higher than the industry average of 3-5%.

Zimmer Knee Replacement Market Statistics

• Over 800,000 Zimmer knee replacements have been implanted worldwide since 2003
• Zimmer Biomet holds approximately 26% of the global knee replacement market, with annual sales exceeding $7.8 billion
• The average cost of a primary knee replacement is $57,000, while revision surgeries average $90,000
• Approximately 2.5% of all knee replacements nationwide require revision surgery within 10 years

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s MAUDE database, Zimmer knee implants have been associated with:

• 12,875 adverse event reports related to NexGen knee systems
• 8,640 adverse event reports related to Persona knee systems
• 6,320 reports specifically mentioning loosening or instability
• 4,750 reports of revision surgery being required

The FDA issued a Class II recall for specific Zimmer Persona components in 2015, affecting approximately 11,658 devices nationwide.

Zimmer Knee Replacement Injuries & Side Effects

Patients who received defective Zimmer knee implants have reported numerous serious complications:

• Premature Implant Failure: Component loosening, detachment, or complete device failure
• Severe Pain: Persistent and debilitating pain that limits mobility and quality of life
• Instability: Difficulty walking, standing, or performing daily activities
• Bone Damage: Osteolysis (bone loss) around the implant site
• Infection: Increased risk of deep tissue or systemic infections
• Revision Surgery: Additional operations to remove and replace the failed implant

Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit if:

• You received a Zimmer knee implant (including Persona or NexGen models) between 2003 and present
• You experienced complications such as severe pain, instability, or implant failure
• You required revision surgery to replace the failed implant
• Your medical records document the link between your injuries and the Zimmer device
• You are within the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in your state

Evidence Required for a Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit

Strong evidence is crucial for building a successful case. Important documentation includes:

• Medical records confirming the initial Zimmer knee replacement
• Surgical reports from both the original and revision surgeries
• Imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) showing implant failure or complications
• Implant identification information (model number, lot number)
• Medical bills and expense records
• Documentation of lost wages and diminished earning capacity

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of defective Zimmer knee implants may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Revision surgery costs
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or impairment
• Loss of enjoyment of life

In cases of particularly egregious misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the manufacturer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Zimmer Knee Replacement Recall Information

In March 2015, Zimmer initiated a voluntary recall of approximately 11,658 Persona Trabecular Metal Tibial Plates due to reports of radiolucent lines (gaps between the implant and bone) and loosening.

The FDA classified this as a Class II recall, indicating that the device could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.

Additional recalls have affected various components of the NexGen Complete Knee Solution, including specific lots manufactured between 2008 and 2012.

Statute of Limitations for Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuits

The statute of limitations varies by state but typically ranges from 1-6 years from the date of injury or discovery of injury. Important considerations:

• Maryland: 3 years from date of injury or discovery
• California: 2 years from date of injury or discovery
• New York: 3 years from date of injury
• Florida: 4 years from date of injury

In many states, the “discovery rule” may extend the deadline if you didn’t immediately realize your injuries were caused by a defective Zimmer implant. Consulting with an experienced attorney promptly is crucial to preserve your legal rights.

FAQs

1. How Much Are Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuits Worth?

Individual case values vary widely based on injury severity, revision surgeries required, and long-term complications. Recent settlements have ranged from $65,000 to $350,000, with an average settlement of approximately $175,000. Cases involving multiple revision surgeries or permanent disability may result in significantly higher compensation.

2. What Specific Zimmer Knee Implants Are Involved in Lawsuits?

Lawsuits primarily involve the Zimmer Persona and NexGen knee replacement systems. The NexGen CR-Flex, LPS-Flex, and Gender Solutions models have been particularly problematic, with higher-than-expected failure rates requiring revision surgery.

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

Most Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits take between 1-3 years to resolve. Individual cases may settle earlier, while cases that proceed to trial typically take longer. Multi-district litigation (MDL) proceedings can streamline the process for many plaintiffs.

4. Do I Need to Pay Upfront for Legal Representation?

No. Most attorneys handling Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only collect payment if they secure compensation for you. Typically, the fee is a percentage of your settlement or verdict.

5. Can I Join a Class Action Lawsuit Against Zimmer?

Rather than class actions, most Zimmer knee replacement cases are handled as individual lawsuits within multidistrict litigation (MDL). This approach allows for consolidated pretrial proceedings while preserving individual case valuations based on specific injuries and circumstances.

6. What Is the Difference Between Zimmer Persona and NexGen Systems?

The Persona system was introduced in 2012 as Zimmer’s “personalized” knee replacement system with more size options. NexGen has been on the market longer (since 2003) and includes various models designed for different patient needs. Both systems have been subject to product liability claims due to reported failure rates.

7. How Many Revision Surgeries Are Typically Required After a Failed Zimmer Implant?

Most patients with failed Zimmer knee implants require one revision surgery, but approximately 21% of patients need multiple revision surgeries due to complications like infection, instability, or continued pain. Each additional surgery increases the risk of permanent mobility limitations.

8. What Should I Do If My Zimmer Knee Replacement Is Causing Pain?

If you’re experiencing pain or other issues with your Zimmer knee replacement, consult your orthopedic surgeon immediately. Request imaging studies to assess the condition of your implant, obtain copies of all medical records, and contact an experienced attorney to discuss your legal options.

Related Articles:

• Maine Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit
• Kentucky Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Attorney
• Louisiana Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit

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 or discovery to file a lawsuit. Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve.

Schmidt & Clark offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Extensive experience with Zimmer knee replacement litigation

Our team of dedicated attorneys understands the complex legal and medical issues involved in Zimmer knee replacement cases and has successfully represented hundreds of clients nationwide in similar claims.

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