Knee Implants
Free Consultation(844) 348-9529
Knee Replacement Failure Lawsuit
Total knee replacement is one of the most common surgical procedures performed each year in the United States. It is estimated that by 2030, the number of total knee replacement surgeries will grow 673% to 3.5 million annually.
As the numbers of replacement surgeries have increased so to have reports of patients suffering from serious complications due to failed knee devices, including component loosening, polyethylene or plastic wear, and fracture. Recently, several manufacturers have issued recalls of knee implants due to high failure rates.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement or total knee arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to replace the weight bearing surfaces in the human knee. Total knee replacement is most commonly performed to relieve pain and immobility due to osteoarthritis.
Most people who undergo a knee replacement are between the ages of 50 and 80. Knee implants are marketed to patients as able to last for 15-20 years, and 85% of well-functioning knee implants are still working at 20 years post-implantation.
Knee Implants Under Investigation
A number of knee devices are currently under investigation due to higher than expected early failure rates. Fitzgerald Law Group is currently investigating cases related to the following devices:
- Arthrex iBalance
- Exactech Optetrak
- Zimmer Persona
Knee Implant Failure
Most device manufacturers promote their replacement knees as designed to last at least 15 to 20 years. However, recent medical studies and FDA safety notifications demonstrate that some knee implants have a higher than expected early failure rate. Knee implants have a risk of early failure due to:
- Failure of the components to properly bond to bone
- Fracture
- Metal debris wearing off components
- Polyethylene or plastic wear
Knee Implant Injuries
Increasing studies and reports also link failed knee implants to causing significant injuries, in some cases requiring revision surgery, including:
- Disassociation of implant
- Fracture
- Infection
- Loosening of components
- Mobility and instability problems
- Polyethylene wear
- Pain and swelling
- Revision Surgery
Knee Implant Litigation
A growing number of knee implant failure cases are being filed in courts around the United States.
Plaintiffs generally allege that the knee devices are defectively designed and that the manufacturers failed to adequately warn orthopedic surgeons and patients about this risk. Plaintiffs also allege that the companies did not properly or thoroughly test the knee implants before selling them to patients.
Knee Implant Failure Lawsuit
If you or someone you love has suffered injury due to a failed knee implant, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your injuries.
To speak with an experienced, knee implant lawyer, contact Fitzgerald Law Group at (844) FITZ-LAW or (844) 348-9529, or complete the contact form on this website for a free, confidential, case assessment.
