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Defective Defibrillator Lawsuit AttorneysIn just the last five years, about 20 different electronic defibrillator devices have been recalled in the United States. Patients and their families have filed numerous lawsuits against their manufacturers, alleging design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn of potentially deadly problems associated with the devices. Some lawsuits accuse manufacturers of continuing to manufacture and market products even after becoming aware of possible or potential defects. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or death as a result of a defective or faulty defibrillator, Estey & Bomberger can help you pursue compensation against the maker of the medical device and any other responsible parties. What is a Defibrillator? A defibrillator is a small electronic medical device stops the fibrillation of heart muscles by delivering a brief electric shock. If you have been diagnosed with an abnormal heartbeat, your doctor may recommend an implanted defibrillator to regulate your heart. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) has small wires, called leads, which connect the defibrillator to the blood vessels in the heart. The wires help the device monitor the heart beat. If it becomes too fast, the device will implement an electric shock to help restore the heart to its normal rhythm. There are several different types of defibrillators, including external defibrillators, transvenous defibrillators, implanted defibrillators, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Implanted defibrillators are battery operated and must be replaced about every five years. Guidant Defibrillator Recall One of the leading manufacturers of ICD devices is Guidant Corporation. In June 2004, 88,000 defibrillators were recalled due to defects, which could cause potential malfunctions. Some of the units could be fixed with reprogramming, and others required invasive surgical procedures to replace them. In April 2007, Guidant recalled 73,000 more devices due to reported incidents of premature battery depletion. Medtronic Defibrillator Recall In 2007, the New York Times reported about a defect in the electrical lead of Medtronic defibrillators. This lead, called the Sprint Fidelis®, can malfunction and cause severe electric shock. Medtronic estimated that about 2.3 percent, or between 4,000 and 5,000 patients, had a faulty wire, which would fracture within 30 months of implantation. Medtronic defibrillators have been linked to not providing the necessarily level of electric stimulation, or providing too much stimulation. The defect can also cause the battery to die prematurely, preventing the defibrillator to work when it is necessary. Despite the serious problems associated with the faulty medical devices, experts have suggested that risk of removing the faulty lead is greater than leaving it in its place. Over time, scar tissue that forms over the lead increases risk of a vein tear or damage to the heart organ if the faulty lead is removed. Defective Defibrillator Lawyers If you or a family member has been seriously injured or died due to a defective defibrillator device, you may be entitled to compensation from the manufacturer of the device. Contact the dangerous products attorneys at Estey & Bomberger for more information and a free review of your potential claim. The dangerous products attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP have successfully represented numerous victims of defective medical devices, including claims against Medtronic. When companies such as Guidant and Medtronic place profits above patient safety, we help patients hold companies accountable for their actions. Our aggressive attorneys can help you obtain the maximum damages you are entitled to for your claim. Contact us today to see how we can help you protect your rights. |
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