Medtronic Defibrilators Manlfunctioning
Malfunctions in implantable cardiac defibrillators have been increasing, and one manufacturer, Medtronic, issued a worldwide recall of 87,000 defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization devices in February 2005. An electrical problem in the defibrillators has caused some of them to fail without warning.
Medtronic is currently facing at least 14 federal lawsuits related to the recall, and 12 of those suits seek class action status. By August 2005, Medtronic had offered to replace those 87,000 devices because of their tendency to short out and quickly lose battery power.
Case Background
135,000 heart patients received cardiac defibrillator implants in the United States in 2004. The defibrillator is implanted under the skin near the collarbone and can sense a fatal type of irregular heart rhythm known as ventricular fibrillation.
These devices are used to send out an electrical charge to the heart to interrupt such an irregular rhythm that could lead to sudden cardiac arrest. They are also used in combination with medication to prevent heart failure, which is a progressive weakening of the heart. Heart failure may be a result of coronary disease or other factors.
Health Risks & Symptoms
If a patient’s implantable cardiac defibrillator stops functioning, the patient is in immediate danger of potential cardiac arrest. Patients who use the device continuously for heart pacing are more at risk if the device fails. If the device fails, it will be unable to correct the dangerous irregular heartbeat if it occurs, and the patient is at risk for sudden cardiac arrest.
The models involved are:
- Maximo VR/DR
- InSync I/II/III
- Marquis
- InSync III Protect
The defibrillators that have the potential to develop the electrical problems were manufactured between April 2001 and December 2003.
Do I Qualify for a Class Action Claim?
If you or a member of your family has a Medtronic defibrilator, then you may qualify for a mass lawsuit claim.
In America today there are thousands of mass lawsuits and billions of dollars in unclaimed monies available for victims. If you have been wronged by a major corporation, you may be entitled to compensation for treatments and pain and suffering.
If you believe you have been wronged, take action to protect your rights.
Fill out the form to the right or call 1.800.387.4262 if you need additional information or want to discuss a potential claim with an attorney. All inquiries are kept strictly confidential.
If the inquiry is accepted for further review, you will receive a prompt response (usually the same day or by the next business day). Local counsel may be used for this matter.
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