What’s Wrong With Zimmer Biomet Shoulder Implants?

For over seven years, shoulders implants with high rates of fractures have been used in thousands of patients. The Zimmer Biomet Shoulder Implant has caused many patients to suffer permanent and debilitating injuries, including lack of function, lack of mobility, and chronic pain.

What Is The Zimmer Biomet Shoulder Implant?

The Comprehensive Reverse Shoulder device manufactured by Zimmer Biomet is used in reverse shoulder replacements. Reverse shoulder replacements are much less common than ordinary shoulder replacements and are usually performed on large rotator cuff tears that have caused arthritis in the joint. Many patients undergoing a reverse shoulder replacement have already undergone unsuccessful shoulder replacement surgeries.

During a normal shoulder replacement surgery, an artificial implant is used that is designed to replicate the normal anatomy of a shoulder. However, in a reverse shoulder replacement surgery, the artificial joint is designed to be the opposite of arm’s natural anatomy. By working in reverse, the joint and shoulder utilize different muscles in the arm for movement.

A reverse shoulder implant can be beneficial for patients who have suffered a rotator cuff injury because the shoulder will rely on the deltoid muscle, rather than the previously injured rotator cuff, to operate the arm.

A History of Recalls

Several models of Zimmer Biomet’s reverse shoulder implant have been recalled throughout the years. The device was approved in 2008, and by 2010 the company recalled certain implants after receiving reports of device fracture. However, in December 2016, Zimmer Biomet initiated another recall of some of its reverse shoulder implants after more reports of device fracture. Several months later, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued warning letters to patients and surgeons cautioning that the fracture risk associated with Zimmer Biomet’s reverse shoulder implants is much higher than what the company advertised on the label.

When a Zimmer Biomet shoulder implant fails, it can cause a variety of dangerous conditions for patients. Fractures in the implant can require additional surgeries, cause permanent damage, permanently limit mobility, and cause chronic pain.