Even though knee replacements are an extremely common procedure, these devices still carry with them certain serious side effects. Zimmer tibial plate failure, for instance, has led to loosening and even injury of the device, causing the company to issue a voluntary recall of the device.

A growing number of knee implant surgery patients are filing lawsuits after experiencing complications and injuries from Zimmer tibial plate failure.

Background of the Zimmer Persona Knee Implant

Knee replacement can become a necessary surgery for a number of reasons. People may undergo knee replacement surgery because of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, collagen disorders, or an inability to straighten the knee, along with many more.

One of the most popular knee implants is the Zimmer Persona device, manufactured by the Indiana based medical device company Zimmer. The Zimmer Persona includes a tibial plate that is implanted directly onto the tibia, or shinbone. This is direct contact between the tibial plate of the device and the tibia bone itself, without using any cement. Then, two pegs are implanted into the bone, and are meant to stabilize the device for use long-term.

However, though this device is supposed to last long-term, and patients expect that their knee implant will be able to handle normal wear and tear from daily use, many have instead experienced Zimmer tibial plate failure, which can cause some serious complications and may even necessitate removal surgery.

Zimmer Tibial Plate Failure

Zimmer tibial plate failure has reportedly led to a number of severe complications, including:

• Persistent pain
• Device loosening
• Fracture
• Loss of mobility
• Inflammation
• Knee instability
• Knee tightness

Of the patients who have sent Zimmer complaints about the device, Zimmer itself has reported that around 38 percent have reported either radiolucent lines (gaps between the implant and the bone) or had to undergo revision surgery due to Zimmer tibial plate failure.

Of course, revision surgery to fix these complications brings with it its own risks, further exposing a patient to surgical risks like infection, fractures, blood clots, bone loss, device failure, damage to nerves, tissue, or blood vessels, as well as substantial medical costs.

Zimmer Tibial Plate Recall

In response to reports of complications from Zimmer tibial plate failure, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a recall of the device back in March 2015. The federal agency classified the recall as class 2, indicating that it is capable of causing temporary or reversible harm. This is in contrast with a class 1 recall, which indicates permanent harm or even potential fatality. The recall affected around 12,000 implants altogether. Zimmer also issued a voluntary Zimmer tibial plate recall.

Zimmer Tibial Plate Failure Lawsuits

If you or someone you love has been harmed due to Zimmer tibial plate failure, you may be able to file a Zimmer lawsuit or join a class action lawsuit. While filing a lawsuit cannot undo the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by problems with the device, it can help to alleviate the financial burden caused by medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with these injuries.