Pennsylvania Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Attorney

Quick Summary

• Seeking Legal Representation: Finding the right attorney is crucial. Look for a lawyer with experience in medical device litigation, specifically with Zimmer knee implants. A skilled attorney can evaluate your case, help you understand the legal landscape, and represent your interests effectively.
• Understanding Your Rights: As a patient, you have the right to safe and effective medical devices. If you’ve suffered due to what you believe is a defective Zimmer knee implant, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. This could include claims for product liability, negligence, or breach of warranty, depending on the specifics of your case.
• Potential for Compensation: If your lawsuit is successful, you could be eligible for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with your complications. Your lawyer can help you understand what types of compensation might be available and how to pursue them.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by offering experienced legal support to those affected by Zimmer knee implant complications, providing a glimmer of hope and a path to justice.

Their expertise includes:

• Assisting victims with joining ongoing lawsuits
• Evaluating eligibility for compensation claims
• Advocating for patient rights against Zimmer for defective knee implants
• Aiding in seeking reparation for additional surgeries and associated challenges

Zimmer Knee Lawsuit

A Zimmer knee replacement lawsuit pertains to claims against defective Zimmer NexGen High Flex Knee Implants and MIS tibial baseplates, initiated after a 2010 study advised against using a specific combination of these implants in patients.

However, it’s worth noting that such lawsuits are far from straightforward. Take the Allegheny County Zimmer knee implant case, for example. Attorney John W. Zotter represented a successful defense, with the plaintiff unable to prove what caused his knees to fall.

This case underscores the crucial importance of having solid evidence when pursuing legal action against Zimmer Persona knee implants.

What Is a Zimmer Knee Implant?

According to the manufacturer, the Zimmer knee implant is a medical device designed to replace a damaged knee joint, aiming to restore mobility and alleviate pain for patients suffering from severe knee conditions [1].

With the precision of modern engineering and the expertise of orthopedic surgeons, these implants are customized to fit the unique anatomy of each patient’s knee.

Despite these advances, it’s important to note that the success of any knee implant, including those from Zimmer, can be influenced by factors such as a patient’s health, activity level, and adherence to post-operative care.

What Is Wrong With The Zimmer Knee Implants?

What is wrong with the Zimmer Knee Implants is that the Zimmer NexGen High Flex Knee Implants are reportedly defective, particularly when utilized in conjunction with MIS tibial baseplates. These allegations have sparked significant concern among medical professionals.

Notably, a pivotal study pointed to a concerning rate of failure associated with the Zimmer NexGen knee implant.

Legal claims highlight issues with the knee’s high flexion, which causes the detachment of the mis-tibial component, specifically the MIS baseplate, from the tibia, resulting in further patient complications. For those unsure, MIS stands for Minimally Invasive Solutions, a term relevant to the Zimmer knee implant cases.

Reasons Behind The Recall

As stated by the manufacturer, considering these problems, the recall of Zimmer knee implants comes as no surprise. In March 2015, Zimmer Persona Knee components were recalled due to a surge in patient complaints about implant loosening and radiolucent lines, leading to chronic pain and the need for early revision surgery [2].

Radiolucent lines, which are gaps visible in radiological studies like X-rays, prompted the recall as surgeons say they could allow fluid and tissue debris to seep in, causing significant discomfort and pain to patients.

The FDA classified the Zimmer knee implant recall as Class 2, indicating that the defect may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.

Main Side Effects Named In The Lawsuits

Lawsuits cite instability, pain, and the need for revision surgery as the primary complications from Zimmer NexGen High Flex Knee Implants and MIS tibial baseplates. A 2010 study indicated a high failure rate for a specific combination of Zimmer implants, leading to Zimmer’s recommendation for surgeons to add a stem extension to the MIS tibial baseplate in 2010 to improve stability.

According to the HSS research from 2020, patients may also experience long-term side effects such as knee stiffness, causing them to walk and a limited range of motion, and might necessitate further treatment [3].

The primary causes of knee implant failure are wear and loosening, infection, instability, leg fractures, or stiffness – Dr. Amar Ranawat, Orthopedic Surgeon at Hospital For Special Surgery, New York

How Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Zimmer knee lawsuit, you must have experienced issues such as joint pain, swelling, infections, nerve damage, bone problems, or mobility difficulties after receiving recalled Zimmer knee replacement components.

Additionally, problems with Zimmer knee replacement prosthetics, including corrosion, component loosening, dislocation, wear and tear, and misalignment, may also establish grounds for a lawsuit.

The Status Of The Zimmer Knee Implant Litigation in Pennsylvania

The landscape of these legal proceedings is shaped by various legal actions, verdicts, and high court rulings involving Zimmer knee implant cases. These cases reflect the complex interplay of medical evidence, expert testimonies, and legal strategies that can significantly impact the outcome of individual lawsuits.

In the courtroom, Pennsylvania trial court, appeals court, and high court have issued key verdicts and rulings in Zimmer knee implant cases, influencing the direction and outcomes of legal proceedings. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has played a crucial role in these court proceedings.

In Polett v. Public Communications Inc., the Pennsylvania Supreme Court reinstated a jury verdict, emphasizing the importance of solid evidence in Zimmer knee implant cases.

Among these cases, the landmark Polett case stands out. Here, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court reversed an earlier appeals court decision to overturn a jury’s $20 million verdict against Zimmer Biomet, a subsidiary of Zimmer Holdings.

The initial jury verdict held Zimmer 34% responsible, Polett herself 30%, and the marketing firm Public Communications 36% for the injuries Polett suffered during a promotional video shoot. The rulings of the appeals court and new trial courts also play a significant role in shaping the outcomes of Zimmer knee implant cases.

Zimmer has avoided multidistrict litigation for the NexGen High Flex Knee cases, indicating that appeal has a distinctive aspect compared to other mass torts and influencing how individual cases are processed and adjudicated.

Zimmer Knee Lawsuit Average Settlement Amounts in Pennsylvania

Zimmer knee lawsuit settlement amounts in Pennsylvania hinge on several factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These amounts aim to offer some relief to patients who have been burdened with the physical and financial fallout from faulty Zimmer knee implants.

When thinking about these settlements, the cost of revision surgeries, including knee replacement surgery, should be taken into account. These expenses cover not just the surgical procedure of replacement surgery itself but also post-operative recovery and rehabilitation.

With hospital charges for revision knee osteoarthritis surgery amounting to an annual economic burden of $2.7 billion in 2010, the financial implications are substantial.

Beyond the financial strain of knee replacement surgery, patients coping with pain and limited mobility due to failed knee implants often endure chronic pain and decreased function. Compounding these physical challenges, negative emotions such as anxiety and depression are linked to less favorable outcomes in the recovery of knee function and health-related quality of life after knee replacement surgery.

Filing a Zimmer Knee Lawsuit in Pennsylvania

If you’re contemplating this move, remember that professional legal assistance is vital for understanding your rights and possible recourse.

You’ll need to understand your legal options, determine liability, and gather compelling evidence to support your claim.

Types of Evidence To Present

Understanding the types of evidence required in a Zimmer knee lawsuit is crucial for a successful outcome in court. Strong evidence can greatly influence the trial court’s decision, tipping the scales in your favor.

Here are the types of evidence that can prove to be indispensable:

• Medical records detailing the surgery, complications, and any follow-up treatments.
• Expert testimonies from medical professionals and industry experts provide insight into the malfunctioning of the implant.
• Documentation of the medical devices, including any serial numbers or batch identifiers that can be traced back to the manufacturer.

Gathering these key pieces of evidence with the help of a knowledgeable attorney can significantly bolster your case. This will allow you to demonstrate liability and the extent of damages incurred by being re-injured due to the Zimmer Knee implant.

What is the Statute of Limitations for the Zimmer Implant Lawsuit in Pennsylvania?

The statute of limitations for the Zimmer implant lawsuit in Pennsylvania is two years from the date the injury was sustained or discovered for individuals to initiate legal proceedings against the manufacturer for product liability claims.

This time limit is essential to adhere to for those seeking to file a claim regarding Zimmer knee implant complications.

How Much Is The Zimmer Implant Lawsuit Worth in Pennsylvania?

The worth of the Zimmer implant lawsuit in Pennsylvania is determined by various factors, such as the extent of medical expenses incurred, the loss of wages due to inability to work, and the personal pain and suffering endured as a result of the implant complications.

The settlement amount remains confidential between the company and plaintiffs in Zimmer NexGen knee cases. It is not uncommon for settlement amounts to be kept private in such legal matters. This confidentiality is often part of the agreement reached between the parties involved, ensuring that the specifics of the settlement do not become public knowledge.

FAQs

Can I still file a lawsuit if I no longer have my Zimmer knee replacement?

Yes, you can still file a lawsuit if you no longer have the implant. Medical records, surgery reports, and expert testimony can help establish the link between the implant and the complications.

What impact can a successful lawsuit have on my life?

A successful lawsuit can provide financial compensation for medical expenses and other damages, help cover the cost of future treatments, and offer a sense of justice and closure.

Are there any support groups for patients with defective knee replacements in Pennsylvania?

Yes, there are support groups and online forums where patients share their experiences and offer support. Your healthcare provider or attorney may have recommendations.

Related Articles:

• Oregon Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit
• Ohio Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit Attorney
• Oklahoma Zimmer Knee Replacement Lawsuit

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

Get Your Free Consultation From Pennsylvania Zimmer Knee Implant Lawyers

If you or someone close to you has suffered from complications following Zimmer knee implant surgery, Schmidt & Clark, LLP is ready to stand by your side. Our seasoned lawyers are well-versed in the complexities of such cases and will guide you through the legal process.

We’re committed to ensuring you understand your rights and determining whether you’re qualified to pursue a lawsuit concerning Zimmer knee implant complications.

Reference:

1. https://www.zimmerbiomet.com/en/products-and-solutions/specialties/knee.html
2. https://www.zimmerbiomet.com/content/dam/zb-corporate/en/products
3. https://www.hss.edu/conditions_revision-total-knee-replacement-faqs.asp