Going to the doctor can be scary for anyone, especially if you are required to undergo surgery. Medical devices have allowed doctors to achieve great advances in surgeries, helping improve the lives and health of millions of people around the world. Doctors have to succeed in years of training to be able to perform surgeries and most of the time, perform surgeries without error. While most situations go off without a hitch, sometimes doctor error or medical device malfunctions can cause very serious consequences for a patient.
Common Medical Device Injuries
Medical devices exist to help people with a variety of health issues. Though most medical devices work as intended without drastic consequences, some become faulty or have side effects that can be detrimental for the rest of a patient’s life. Some of the devices that are frequently found to have issues include the following:
- Metal knee and hip implants, which often become dislocated and/or fracture. Some patients have experienced metallosis as a result of the device.
- Intra-Uterine Devices, which are increasingly common forms of birth control, have the possibility of rupturing the uterine wall, moving into the abdomen, and causing damage to organs. Additionally, an IUD that is fault may result in pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancies.
- Inferior vena cava filters, which could puncture organs and blood vessels if it comes loose. IVC filters exist to act as a blood thinner and are necessary for people who have a high risk of blood clots.
- Transvaginal mesh, used to treat incontinence, can cause serious pain, perforation of the bladder, and bleeding.
- 3T Heater-Cooler devices, which are used during bypass operations and open heart surgeries to cool or warm patients during surgery, have had links to bacterial infections. These infections can take three to five years to show any symptoms and can ultimately be fatal.
Recovering Damages Due to a Faulty Medical Device
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured by a faulty medical device, you may be entitled to significant compensation, known as damages. These damages can include compensation for unexpected medical bills, lost wages, and the potential for lifelong repercussions. You may also be entitled to additional compensation for the emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life that was caused by the medical device injury.
If you require strong legal representation after being seriously injured by a faulty medical device, it is critical that you contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney. Contact Friedman Schuman today to learn more about how we can help.
Friedman Schuman is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, please contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
