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If you or a loved one experienced complications due to a Zimmer Persona knee implant, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective medical devices. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the justice you deserve.

Get in touch with our legal team at once for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Zimmer Persona Class Action Lawsuit Overview

Zimmer Biomet has issued a recall for its Persona knee replacement after the implant was linked to reports of early loosening which can lead to adverse health complications, including the need for painful revision surgery.

The defective Zimmer Knee implants, introduced in 2003, use a porous metal component that has been associated with significant failure rates.

Two prominent Chicago orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Richard Berger and Dr. Craig Della Valle from Rush University Medical Center, reported that 36% of the implants were loose after 2 years, and 9.3% of the implants were either revised or scheduled to be revised because of looseness and associated pain.

Despite these alarming statistics, Zimmer has sold over 150,000 of these implants since 2003, with the NexGen products making up 2% of the $1.76 billion in sales from 2009. The company has resisted calls for a voluntary recall, claiming that the Chicago surgeons simply implanted the medical devices incorrectly.

Latest Zimmer Persona Class Action Lawsuit Updates

2015 – Three years after FDA approval, Zimmer issued a recall for the Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate, a component of the Persona Knee implant, after it was linked to numerous reports of problems leading to revision surgery. Nearly 12,000 Zimmer Persona knee replacements were affected by this recall [1].
2012 – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Zimmer Personalized Knee System (Zimmer Persona Knee), which was later associated with high failure rates [2].

Related Article: Exactech Optetrak Knee Lawsuit

Reports and Statistics on Zimmer Persona Knee Implant Defects

Statistical data from clinical studies and complaint reports highlight the extent of the problems with Zimmer

Persona knee implants:

36% of implants were found to be loose after just 2 years, according to studies by orthopedic surgeons at Rush University Medical Center [3].
9.3% of implants required revision surgery or were scheduled for revision due to loosening and pain.
Nearly 12,000 Zimmer Persona knee replacements were affected by the recall.
Of the complaints Zimmer received:
- 28% had asymptomatic radiolucencies
- 8% subsided
- 28% were inconclusive
Zimmer has sold over 150,000 of these implants since the product was released in 2003 [4].

Zimmer Persona Defects & Safety Risks

The Zimmer Persona knee implant has been associated with several serious complications that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life:

Premature Loosening: Many patients experience early failure of the implant due to loosening, often within just 2 years of surgery.
Knee Pain: Persistent and often severe pain in the knee joint.
Lack of Artificial Knee Fixation: Failure of the implant to properly bond with existing bone.
Device Failure: Complete mechanical failure of the implant components.
Poor Seating: Improper fit of components leading to misalignment.
Persistent Pain: Ongoing discomfort that does not improve with time.
Knee Tightness: Restricted movement and uncomfortable stiffness.
Need for Revision Surgeries: Many patients require additional surgeries to remove or undergo knee replacement surgery.

Though revision surgery may fix many of the complications associated with the Zimmer Persona system, these surgeries come with their own risks.

Since the knee has already been operated on once, it is more vulnerable to problems the second time around.

Complications associated with knee revision surgery include:

Device failure
Infection
Pain and swelling
Nerve, tissue, or blood vessel damage
Bone loss
Blood clots
Fractures
Leg length differences

These additional risks make the failure of the original Zimmer Persona implant even more serious for affected patients.

Do You Qualify for a Zimmer Persona Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Zimmer Persona lawsuit if:

You received a Zimmer Persona knee implant, particularly one with the Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate.
You have experienced complications such as premature loosening, persistent pain, or device failure.
You required or are scheduled for revision surgery to correct problems with your knee implant.
You have medical records documenting the implant and subsequent complications.
You have incurred medical expenses, lost wages, or experienced pain and suffering due to the defective implant.

Evidence Required for a Zimmer Persona Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather:

Medical records confirming your Zimmer Persona knee implant.
Documentation of complications experienced after the implantation.
Records of any revision surgeries or treatments required to address the failed implant.
Evidence of communications with healthcare providers about implant issues.
Proof of expenses related to additional treatment for complications.
Expert medical opinions connecting your injuries to the defective device.

Damages You Can Recover

If you've been harmed by a defective Zimmer Persona knee implant, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical Expenses: Costs for revision surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and any other medical care related to complications.
Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to recovery from revision surgeries or medical appointments.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Emotional Distress: Compensation for anxiety, depression, and trauma associated with implant failure and additional surgeries.
Punitive Damages: In cases where gross negligence is proven, additional damages may be awarded to punish the manufacturer.

Zimmer Persona Recall Information

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Zimmer Personalized Knee System (Zimmer Persona Knee) in late 2012.

Just 3 years later, the company issued a Zimmer Persona Recall for the Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate, a component of the implant, after it was linked to numerous reports of problems that could lead to revision surgery.

Nearly 12,000 Zimmer Persona knee replacements were affected by the recall. The company also recalled the Persona Tibial Articular Surface Provisional Shim, a tool used during knee surgery, because of the potential for complications.

The Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate is a component that fits over the top of the tibia bone (shin bone) after it has been modified to accommodate the implant.

It is secured to the bone, where it provides a sort of platform for the rest of the knee implant.

Statute of Limitations for Zimmer Persona Lawsuits

The time limit for filing a Zimmer Persona lawsuit varies by state but generally ranges from 1-6 years from the date you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injuries were caused by the defective implant.

Some states apply the "discovery rule," which means the statute of limitations begins when you knew or should have known that your injuries were caused by the defective device, not necessarily when the implant was placed.

Because of these variations and complexities, it's crucial to consult with an experienced medical device attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

Related Zimmer Lawsuits:

See all current cases on medical devices claims.

FAQs

1. Can I join a class action lawsuit if I have a Zimmer Persona knee replacement?

Yes, individuals who have experienced complications from a Zimmer Persona knee replacement may be eligible to join a class action lawsuit. However, Schmidt & Clark, LLP files individual lawsuits rather than class actions because they believe every person injured by a defective knee replacement deserves an attorney who is committed to their specific case. Individual lawsuits often result in higher compensation than class action settlements.

2. What compensation can be sought in a Zimmer Persona 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.

3. What should I bring to my initial consultation with a medical device attorney?

Bring all relevant medical records, proof of the knee replacement implant, documentation of expenses related to the complications, and any communication with healthcare providers or the manufacturer.

4. What are common defenses used by manufacturers in medical device lawsuits?

Common defenses include arguing that the complications were caused by factors other than the implant, asserting that the implant was properly tested and approved, and claiming that the patient did not follow post-surgical care instructions.

5. How does the Zimmer Persona knee system work?

The Zimmer Persona knee system is designed to replace damaged knee joints in patients suffering from arthritis or extensive fractures. In a total knee replacement surgery, surgeons remove the bone tissue and cartilage on the end of the femur (thigh bone) and the shin bone (tibia). Devices, often made of plastic or metal, are then attached to create a new knee joint.

6. What is the Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate?

The Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate is a component that fits over the top of the tibia bone after it has been modified to accommodate the implant. It is secured to the bone, providing a platform for the rest of the knee implant.

7. What are the signs of Zimmer Persona knee implant failure?

Signs of implant failure may include persistent pain, swelling, limited mobility, instability, clicking or grinding sensations, and visible deformity around the knee.

8. How long does it take to resolve a Zimmer Persona lawsuit?

The duration varies depending on case complexity, but medical device lawsuits typically take 1-3 years to resolve, with some settling more quickly and others taking longer if they go to trial.

9. Can I file a lawsuit if my Zimmer Persona implant hasn't failed yet?

Generally, you need to have experienced complications or injuries to pursue a lawsuit. However, you should consult with an attorney if you have a recalled implant, even if you haven't experienced symptoms yet.

10. How do I know if my knee implant is a Zimmer Persona device?

Your medical records should indicate the type of implant you received. You can also ask your surgeon or request this information from the hospital where your surgery was performed.

Get Your Free Zimmer Persona Lawsuit Evaluation From Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to defective Zimmer Persona knee implants. Statute of limitations laws may restrict how long you have to file a claim, making it crucial to act promptly if you've been affected.

The Medical Device Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers focusing on the representation of plaintiffs in Zimmer Persona Lawsuits.

We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new Zimmer Persona Lawsuits in all 50 states.

We offer:

Free, confidential consultations
No upfront costs or fees
Payment only if we win your case

Free Case Evaluation: Again, if you had problems with a knee replacement device, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free consultation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a Knee Replacement Lawsuit and we can help with compensation for medical expenses.

Reference:

https://www.biospace.com/zimmer-voluntarily-recalls-knee-device-persona-trabecular-metal
https://www.drugdangers.com/knee-replacement/zimmer-persona/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6928276/
https://investor.zimmerbiomet.com/~/media/Files/Z/ZimmerBiomet-IR/reports-and-presentations/zimvie-investor-day-07feb2022.pdf

Zimmer Persona Class Action Lawsuit | March 2025 Latest Updates