Oklahoma Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Attorney

Quick Summary

• Understanding the Lawsuit Context: In Oklahoma, numerous lawsuits have been filed against Zimmer Inc., focusing on the alleged failures of their knee implants. These legal actions generally claim that the implants were defectively designed or manufactured, leading to premature failure and significant patient distress.
• Eligibility Criteria for Filing a Lawsuit: To be eligible to file a lawsuit, you must have experienced specific issues with your Zimmer knee implant, such as severe pain, loss of mobility, or the need for one or more revision surgeries. Proof of these complications, typically documented through medical records and expert testimony, is essential for building a strong case.
• Guidance for Legal Action: If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to consult with a lawyer who specializes in medical device litigation. An experienced attorney can offer detailed advice tailored to your situation, help you navigate the complexities of the legal process, and work to secure the compensation you deserve for your suffering and financial losses.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by standing as a steadfast ally in the face of pain caused by the very device intended to relieve you. Envision a team that not only provides a free case evaluation but also unwaveringly supports you throughout the daunting legal battle against giants like Zimmer Inc. in district court.

They are more than just legal representatives; they’re your advocates in the pursuit of justice, helping you understand your rights and evaluate the potential of your case.

Whether it’s recovering compensation for medical costs, lost income, or damages related to Zimmer knee implant recalls, they guide you through every complex legal twist and turn. Their track record speaks volumes.

With a history of securing awards for clients affected by defective medical devices, the firm shines as a beacon of hope for those feeling lost in the aftermath of a faulty knee implant.

Zimmer Knee Lawsuit

Embarking on the intimidating journey of knee replacement lawsuits can be overwhelming. However, gaining a clear understanding of the Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit is a necessity for those impacted by knee replacement implant complications.

The Zimmer knee replacements, including the Persona and NexGen knee system, were hailed as revolutionary.

With over 440 lawsuits consolidated into multidistrict litigation, the story of these implants turned from a medical breakthrough to a legal battleground.

What Is a Zimmer Knee Implant?

A Zimmer knee implant is a medical device designed for knee replacement surgeries. It alleviates pain and restores mobility in patients with severe knee damage, often due to arthritis or injury.

According to the manufacturer, its primary function is to restore stability to the posterior aspect of the knee, and it requires cementing into position. Generally, this device is utilized to compensate for damage sustained by the posterior cruciate ligament, also known as the PCL [1].

Manufactured by Zimmer Inc., these implants include various models, such as the Persona and NexGen knee systems. These systems were initially introduced as innovative solutions for knee replacement. However, they have since been the subject of numerous lawsuits due to complications arising post-surgery.

What Is Wrong With The Zimmer Knee Implants?

What is wrong with the Zimmer knee implants manifests as a variety of symptoms experienced by patients. These symptoms include swelling, pain, and stiffness, which are often the initial signs of trouble. Patients have also reported early wear and tear, suggesting a faulty design and improper fit of the implant.

These defects are believed to contribute to the high rate of early failure, leaving patients grappling with discomfort and uncertainty about their health and mobility. These issues have been the harbingers of the implants’ downfall.

Recalls have been issued for reasons including the high early failure rate of the Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex knee replacement and both aseptic and septic loosening of the implant, casting a shadow over what was once considered a beacon of hope for those with knee problems.

The consequences of these serious complications, such as bone or device fractures and infection, have been dire, forming the basis of many lawsuits.

Reasons Behind The Recall

According to the manufacturer, the Zimmer knee implants weren’t recalled without reason. There have been over 900 federal lawsuits indicating the extensive defects encountered by patients who entrusted their mobility to these medical devices [2].

As we delve deeper into the reasons behind the recall and the legal actions taken, it becomes apparent that a vast number of patients have been left grappling with the consequences of these faulty products.

Main Side Effects Named In The Lawsuits

According to NIH 2020 research, the lawsuits highlight the primary side effects experienced by patients: pain, knee implant failure, and the need for revision surgery [3].

Knee replacement lawsuits claim the devices loosened, became unstable and required revision surgery to correct the problems. Depuy Attune, Zimmer NexGen and Arthrex iBalance are among the knee implants named in lawsuits – Dr. Aimee Hachigian-Gould, Orthopedic Surgeon and Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

These complications have affected not only patients’ physical well-being but also their financial stability, as they are forced to navigate the unexpected costs of additional medical care, including knee replacement implants.

In such cases, skilled knee surgeons play a crucial role in addressing these complications and helping patients recover.

Implant Loosening

Implant loosening, a pervasive issue with the Zimmer NexGen knee replacement system, has caused more than mere joint pain for many patients. Factors like high degree of flex, high-impact activities, excessive body weight, and wear and tear of the device’s components have led to the implants’ failure to perform as expected.

This loosening can lead to osteolysis or deterioration of the bone around the implant, necessitating additional surgeries and further complicating the lives of those affected.

The challenge of diagnosing implant loosening only exacerbates the issue, with accurate tests to detect it before it becomes problematic still out of reach.

The Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex system, in particular, has been notorious for its high rate of loosening, with over 36% of patients experiencing loosening of the femoral component. The non-cemented design of this system contributed significantly to its issues with incomplete fusion and implant loosening.

Revision Surgery

When a Zimmer knee implant fails to attach to the bone properly, instability follows, often leading to revision surgery. This aseptic loosening accounts for over 30% of knee implant revision surgeries, which may involve replacing one or all components of the prosthesis, sometimes with specialized implants for greater stability.

The most common symptoms of a failed knee implant are pain, decrease in joint function, knee instability, and swelling or stiffness in the knee joint – Dr. Amar Ranawat, Orthopedic surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery, New York

These surgeries are far from straightforward; they’re more complex, time-consuming, and risky than the initial replacement, with potential complications like poor wound healing, infection, knee stiffness, blood clots, and fractures around the implant.

The Zimmer NexGen LPS-Flex knee replacement is a case in point. A high incidence of premature loosening leads to an increased rate of revision surgeries within just a few years of the first procedure.

How Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Zimmer knee lawsuit in Oklahoma, you must have experienced severe discomfort or other complications from a defective knee replacement. It’s crucial to consult with a lawyer who can evaluate your case based on your medical history and the specific statutes of limitations in your state.

Legal representation is vital in guiding you through the complexities of litigation against medical device companies.

In Oklahoma, a claim for negligence per se can be maintained if it is based on the violation of a federal regulation. This regulation parallels state law requirements, setting a clear path for eligibility.

The Status Of The Zimmer Knee Implant Litigation in Oklahoma

As of now, Zimmer has faced over 15,000 lawsuits regarding their NexGen knee implant. This staggering number reflects the gravity of the situation and the sheer volume of affected individuals seeking justice for the complications they’ve endured.

The litigation landscape in Oklahoma mirrors this trend, with numerous cases highlighting the widespread dissatisfaction with these implants.

Zimmer Knee Lawsuit Average Settlement Amounts in Oklahoma

Cash settlements in Oklahoma Zimmer knee lawsuits can be significant, offering a financial lifeline to cover the costs of treatment and addressing the effects of a faulty knee replacement. While the compensation may vary, understanding the potential settlement amounts can offer a glimmer of hope to those coping with the repercussions of a failed implant.

Specific terms and amounts from past settlements in Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits are usually kept confidential and out of public sight. The resolved Zimmer NexGen Knee MDL provides a concluded chapter in the history of these lawsuits, bestowing some closure upon those affected.

While the average settlement values for Zimmer lawsuits are not publicly disclosed, past cases such as those settled by Sulzer Medica, averaging around $200,000 per patient, give us some indication of the financial restitution that might be available for similar cases.

Several factors come into play when determining compensation amounts in Zimmer knee replacement lawsuits. These factors include:

• The extent of the injuries
• The cost of medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages
• Whether the case is settled or goes to trial

All of these factors play a role in the final figure, much like the various elements considered in a summary judgment.

Filing a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit in Oklahoma

If you’ve undergone severe discomfort or complications following a knee replacement in Oklahoma, you might be eligible to file a Zimmer knee lawsuit. The initial step is to seek legal advice, and numerous law firms in Oklahoma provide free consultations to examine your case and clarify your legal avenues.

Types of Evidence To Present

To build a successful Zimmer knee implant lawsuit, gathering the right evidence is crucial. Legal representation can help you acquire the necessary medical records, which are essential to your case.

These records should include:

• The date of the initial knee replacement surgery
• Any subsequent revision surgeries
• The surgical location
• The specific type of knee implant used

In Oklahoma, you can use the standard authorization form to permit your personal injury attorney to obtain these medical records. Be aware that:

• There may be fees for copying medical records
• There is a capped rate for electronic records
• There is an overall cost cap, including postage or delivery.

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

The statute of limitations for the Zimmer implant lawsuit in Oklahoma is generally two years from the date of injury. This timeframe applies to product liability lawsuits, which encompass medical device cases such as those involving Zimmer knee replacements.

It is important to note, however, that if the injury caused by the defective product was not immediately known, the clock for the statute of limitations may start ticking from the moment the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.

To avoid losing the right to file due to time constraints, it’s imperative to act swiftly and consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your filing falls within the state’s specific deadlines.

How Much Is The Zimmer Implant Lawsuit Worth in Oklahoma?

The worth of the Zimmer implant lawsuit in Oklahoma is best understood by examining the considerable settlements reached in previous cases since it can differ from one to another.

FAQs

Can I file a lawsuit if I experienced complications with my Zimmer knee replacement in Oklahoma?

Yes, individuals in Oklahoma who experienced complications from Zimmer knee replacements may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Consult with a personal injury attorney specializing in medical device litigation to evaluate your case.

What evidence is needed to support a Zimmer 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.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for complications caused by a Zimmer knee replacement in Oklahoma?

The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in Oklahoma is typically two years from the date of injury or discovery of the injury. Consult with an attorney to ensure timely filing.

What compensation can be sought in a Zimmer 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.

Related Articles:

• North Dakota Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit
• Ohio Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Attorney
• North Carolina Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit

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

Get Your Free Consultation From Oklahoma Zimmer Knee Implant Lawyers

The legal experts at Schmidt & Clark, LLP stand ready to assist you through the complexities of Zimmer knee implant complications. If you or someone close to you has suffered due to a Zimmer knee implant, we invite you to reach out. Our seasoned attorneys are well-versed in these types of cases and will guide you through every step of the legal process.

We offer clear insights into your legal rights and will meticulously evaluate the potential of your claim. Our initial case evaluations are free of charge, and we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win.

Contact us for an in-depth review of your situation regarding a Zimmer knee implant.

Reference:

1. https://www.zimmerbiomet.com/en/products-and-solutions/specialties/knee.html
2. https://www.zimmerbiomet.com/content/dam/zb-corporate/en/products/specialties/knee/nexgen-complete-knee
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7528670/