Knee replacement surgery is one of the most common procedures in the United States, and the Zimmer Persona device is a popular choice for many patients. However, a growing number of patients are reporting suffering from a variety of Zimmer Persona knee problems, including pain, inflammation, and instability.

If you have suffered from Zimmer Persona knee problems after undergoing knee replacement surgery, you may be able to pursue litigation.

The Zimmer Persona Knee Implant

The Zimmer Persona device has a particular component associated with these problems: the Zimmer Persona Trabecular Metal tibial plate. The tibial plate component is implanted into the bone without the use of cement, attached to the tibia. To attach the component to the bone, two pegs are inserted to add stability to the implant, essentially “growing” into the bone.

Unfortunately, despite the popularity of this device, more and more patients are reporting serious Zimmer Persona knee problems.

Zimmer Persona Knee Problems

While any medical device or medication will involve the risk of certain side effects, patients claim that they were not adequately warned about the risks associated with the Zimmer Persona device’s tibial plate component. The implant component has been linked to early device failure.

Device failure can result in the device loosening and even moving from its proper position, creating gaps between the implant and the bone. Symptoms of a failing Zimmer Persona tibial plate include:

• Knee instability
• Knee tightness
• Loss of mobility
• Inflammation
• Persistent pain

According to Zimmer, 38 percent of the complaints it has received about Zimmer Persona knee problems include either symptomatic radiolucent lines or revision surgery from device failure. However, knee replacement surgery itself brings with it its own risks of complications, as well as incurs further medical expenses.

Zimmer Recalls the Persona Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate

These Zimmer Persona knee problems led Zimmer to initiate a recall in January 2015 and announced by the FDA several weeks later in March 2015. The manufacturer cited one specific reason: “An increase in complaints of loosening and radiolucent lines.” The recall pulled all sizes and versions of the Persona Trabecular Metal Tibial Plate, removing them from distribution.

The Zimmer recall affected around 12,000 of these Trabecular Metal components.

The recall is considered a “Class 2 Recall,” which is used for drugs and medical devices associated with temporary or reversible harm. A Class 1 Recall, by contrast, would refer to a device that could cause serious or permanent harm.

Filing a Lawsuit Over Zimmer Persona Knee Problems

If you or someone you love have suffered from Zimmer Persona knee problems after knee replacement surgery with a device including the Trabecular Metal tibial plate component, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the device’s manufacturer. Filing a lawsuit cannot take away the pain and suffering caused by Zimmer Persona knee problems, but it can help to alleviate the financial burden caused by medical expenses and lost wages.