Years of advancements in technology have allowed the medical field to improve treatment options for patients. While many of the advancements in medicine have the potential to save lives, defective medical products can lead to serious injury or death. When a lack of quality control and testing causes harm to those they are meant to help, companies must be held accountable. According to the Food and Drug Administration, there are hundreds of thousands of reported injuries and fatalities resulting from faulty medical device injuries. The experienced medical device injury attorneys at Friedman Schuman have represented clients for over 40 years when they need quality legal representation. Contact a medical malpractice attorney at Friedman Schuman to schedule a consultation.
Types of medical device injuries
Medical devices are utilized to aid in many different health issues. While medical devices aim to assist patients with certain conditions, they may be faulty and cause injury. Reported injuries or deaths may force companies to issue recalls on these products. Some devices with a history of issues include:
- Metal hip and knee implants: When metal implants malfunction, the devices may fracture, become dislocated, and even cause metallosis in some patients.
- Intra-Uterine Device (IUD): IUDs are implanted in the uterus for birth control. If an IUD moves, it can rupture the uterine wall or move into the abdomen, which may cause damage to the rib cage, intestines, liver, spine, or spleen. If the IUD is faulty, it can also cause ectopic pregnancies and pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Inferior vena cava filters (IVC): Patients who are at risk of blood clots may choose to have an IVC installed to act as a blood thinner. However, if the device comes loose, it could move around, puncturing other organs or piercing blood vessels.
- Transvaginal mesh: This device is used to treat incontinence. Unfortunately, it can cause bleeding, perforation of the bladder, and serious pain.
- 3T Heater-Cooler devices: These devices are often used during open-heart surgeries and bypass operations. They aim to either warm or cool patients as they go through surgery. Sorin 3T devices have been linked to bacterial infections that may take 3-5 years to show signs. These infections can be fatal.
Often, faulty medical devices require additional surgery. This can result in unexpected medical bills, lost wages, and possible lifelong repercussions. With a successful lawsuit, one may be able to recover significant damages that can help mitigate some of the costs as well as the pain and suffering from the injuries.
Contact our experienced medical device injury attorneys
If you or a loved one sustained injuries as the result of a faulty medical device, you may want to consult with an attorney to discuss the facts of your matter. Obtaining legal advice from an experienced medical device injury attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options. The attorneys at Friedman Schuman have over 40 years of experience providing injured clients with strong legal guidance when it matters most. If you have been injured by a medical device, contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
