Studies Raise Serious Concern Over NexGen Knee

A 2010 study of 108 patients with Zimmer NexGen CR-Flex knee replacements found that the device had a failure rate of 9.3%, while 36% of patients fitted with the Zimmer knee replacement experienced significant loosening of the device. Many patients require a second surgery, a Zimmer knee revision surgery, which is a painful, lengthy process. According to the data collected by the knee specialists who conducted the study, the complications that occurred in Zimmer knee replacements were not related to the surgeon, surgical procedure, or type of patient. Last summer, the New York Times reported on two physicians, Dr. Berger and Dr. Della Valle, from Rush Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Berger was a former consultant of Zimmer who implanted a number of flex knees. However, he found an unacceptably high rate of failure of nearly 10% and the need for Zimmer replacements for the flex knees. If Berger's estimates are accurate, then there could be thousands of Zimmer replacements needed in the future.

The knee replacement, or revisions, that are required due to failure, can be a painstaking process. Knee revision surgeries are much more complicated than the first surgery, due to those factors. Zimmer knee victims who experience Zimmer knee failure have to undergo this terrible surgery. Patients must rely on walking aids until they fully recover, which could take up to one year. The knee is often too tight to bend. Infections and blood clots may develop from anesthesia. Stiffness, loss in motion and pain may occur due to calcium deposits in surrounding soft tissue. Patients are more likely to suffer from complications if they are overweight, smokers, have weak immune systems, anemia, poor circulation, or diabetes.

Surgeons need to remove the bonding agents from the tibia and femur, and during this process fracturing is common, as the bone is very fragile. Once the primary prosthesis is taken out, there is almost always bone loss. The tibia and femur must be cleaned before the new joint is implanted, and anchoring the implant is challenging since replicating the natural shape of bones is difficult. Surrounding soft tissues and ligaments must be adjusted, and in order to achieve full movement and an exact fit, these elements must be balanced. Those suffering from the effects of Zimmer knee failure are advised to consult with an experienced Zimmer knee lawyer as soon as possible.