Background
Zimmer Biomet’s NexGen knee replacement system is the second most popular brand of knee implant in the United Kingdom. However, in recent years the high rate of failure of the product has given rise to many lawsuits. Patients who have experienced adverse effects as a result of the NexGen knee replacement system may bring a claim for compensation for the damage they have suffered.
Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is a common as well as safe orthopaedic procedure that involves replacing the joint in the knee with an implant. Zimmer Biomet’s NexGen knee replacement system is the second most popular brand of knee implant in the United Kingdom. However, in recent years, it has come to light that this product has a high rate of failure and often has painful or debilitating effects in patients. As a result of this, patients have filed lawsuits against Zimmer Biomet and received compensation for the damage they have suffered.
What Issues Has Zimmer Biomet’s NexGen Knee Replacement System Given Rise To?
The primary issue with Zimmer Biomet’s NexGen knee replacement system is that it has been shown to cause aseptic loosening of the tibial component in many patients following surgery. This, in turn, gives rise to a variety of issues including:
- Painful joints
- Swelling
- Bone fracture or loss
- Infections in the knee area
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Limited range of motion
- Nerve damage
As a result of this, many patients experienced premature knee implant failure and had to undergo early revision surgery. Research has shown that the most common cause of revision surgery within the first five years has been as a result of loosening.
What Evidence Is There to Substantiate These Claims?
Research has found that between 2013 and 2015, 352 NexGen TKAs were carried out on 331 patients. 62 revisions were carried out with 59 of these arising as a result of an aseptic loosening of the tibial component.
While the study acknowledges that a variety of factors play into early loosening, its authors nevertheless concluded that there is a fundamental issue with the NexGen implant design.
How Can Patients Claim Compensation?
As a result of the issues caused by the NexGen knee replacement system, many of the products have been recalled. Moreover, Zimmer Biomet has offered to cover the cost of a new knee joint which is often very costly.
Nevertheless, there is also the possibility to bring a claim for compensation. Many plaintiffs have been successful in their lawsuits against the company and received substantial awards for the damage they have suffered.
What Can Patients Claim Compensation For?
Patients may claim compensation for the surgical expenses and the permanent disability that the implant has given rise to. However, compensation can often extend beyond this, and plaintiffs may be awarded damages for loss of income due to their inability to work, the cost of rehabilitation following the complications, the cost of home care as well as general damages for the pain and suffering that the implants caused.
How Can HOMS Assist Help You?
Our dedicated team here at HOMS Assist can aid you in making a claim for compensation for the damage caused by Zimmer Biomet’s NexGen knee replacement system. We will guide you along each step of the way, from obtaining medical records to initiating court proceedings.
With over 50 years of expert legal experience advising patients, we are here to provide expert advice when you need it most.
Call us today on 1800 207 207 or contact us online.
