In 2012, Zimmer released a knee replacement device onto the market known as the Zimmer Persona. This product was touted as being able to achieve a precise anatomical fit in patients who wished to remain active following their knee replacement surgery.

Unfortunately, problems began to surface with the Persona that could ultimately lead to Zimmer knee implant failure due to problems with the tibial plates. Patients began to report loosening of the implant, which led them to need revision surgery. Other reported problems included a reduction in the range of motion for their knee, problems with mobility and maintaining balance, difficulty walking, and audible popping.

Some patients allegedly developed pain and inflammation in their knees–a problem that the knee replacement was originally intended to fix. Instead of getting pain relief from having their knee repaired with a knee replacement, patients began reporting problems stemming from the knee implant itself.

Problems Lead to Zimmer Persona Recall for Tibial Plate Defects

In 2015, a voluntary recall was issued by Zimmer and was later announced by the FDA. The recall pertained to the the tibial plates of Zimmer Persona knee replacement systems.

The recall applies to the Zimmer tibial plates that were designed to be implanted in patients without the use of cement. Rather than using cement as is traditionally done, these Zimmer implants used two pegs designed to insert into and connect to the tibia bone.

When patients had X-rays to determine the source of their pain, it was found that some patients who had the Zimmer Persona knee implant had gaps between the knee implant and the bone where it was supposed to attach, visible on X-ray as radiolucent lines. These lines are an indication that the knee implant was not in its proper place and was causing issues.

The two pegs that were used to attach the implant were designed to provide stability to the implant. However, in cases in which the tibial plate failed to connect properly to the tibia, some patients reported knee instability, tightness, loss of mobility, pain and inflammation as a result.

The FDA categorized the recall of the tibial plates leading to the Zimmer Persona knee implant failure as a “Class II Recall.” Recalls of this type indicate that devices may cause temporary harm or harm that is reversible. This is in contrast to a more serious Class I FDA recall, which can lead to irreversible damage or even death.

Many patients who had persistent pain and inflammation from the device failure had to undergo knee revision surgery in order to replace the defective components. Unfortunately, knee revision surgeries carry an increased risk of complications as compared to the original knee replacement surgery.

Some issues that may be caused by a revision surgery include damage to nerves, tissues and blood vessels, infections, continued pain and inflammation, bone loss, fractures, blood clots and discrepancies in leg lengths.

Did You Experience Zimmer Persona Knee Failure Due to a Faulty Tibial Plate?

Patients who have had problems following the placement of a Zimmer Persona knee implant using the tibial plate that was recalled in 2015 may be eligible to receive legal compensation.

An attorney familiar with the injuries and related issues stemming from the Zimmer Persona tibial plate recall can provide you with a free case review and consultation to help you determine if you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer to receive monetary compensation for your injuries.