If you or someone you know has suffered injury because of a defective medical device, contact an experienced Charleston defective medical device attorney at DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC for a free evaluation of your case.
What is a Defective Medical Device Case?
Defective medical device lawsuits arise when patients receive products that are unsafe because of a design or manufacturing defect. Such products can cause further injury—or even death. If you suffered injuries as a result of a defective medical device, the product manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be held liable.
Examples of Defective Medical Device Cases
- Bard Composix Kugel mesh hernia patch—A Clarksburg, WV woman suffered severe pain and complications years after having a Kugel mesh patch implanted into her abdomen. Although the product was later recalled, the woman was not notified.
- Avaulta brand vaginal mesh product—Numerous lawsuits were filed in West Virginia against C.R. Bard for complications stemming from their Avaulta vaginal mesh product. One woman suffered severe complications after having the product implanted, including permanent injury.
- Sprint Fidelis defibrillator leads—Medtronic voluntarily suspended production of its thin lead wires used in defibrillators after defects in the product were linked to a number of deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Defective Medical Device Injuries
Injuries caused by a defective medical device vary widely depending on the condition of the patient and the type of medical device involved. Some examples of recent defective products and related injuries include:
- Stents—Defects caused blood clots, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and death.
- Hip replacement parts—Various defects caused severe pain, chromium poisoning, and required multiple corrective surgeries.
- Silicone gel breast implants—Implant ruptures are linked to the development of fibromyalgia and other severe and permanent illnesses.
- Intrauterine devices—Defects resulted in high incidences of pelvic disease.
- Dental sealants—Users tested positive for zinc poisoning and experienced a number of neurological problems.
The Connection Between Defective Products and Malpractice Law
Overlaps exist between defective product liability and medical malpractice claims, so it is best to consult with a medical malpractice attorney about your options. Manufacturers may claim they fulfilled their duty to warn about potential dangers by informing medical professionals—who were then expected to inform patients. Or, medical staff may fail to properly maintain devices or neglect to ensure recommended products are free of defects and have no known recalls. Such instances are complex and require the experience of a skilled malpractice attorney.
How a Charleston Defective Medical Device Lawyer Can Help
The Charleston defective medical device lawyers at DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC help clients establish fault in defective medical device cases to obtain fair compensation for injuries. With our years of experience, access to expert witnesses, thorough understanding of the law, and negotiating and litigation skills we achieve results for our clients. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help.
