Consumers and patients alike trust that products have been tested by the manufacturers and certified safe to use for their intended purpose. When these products are medical in nature, there is an extra level of worry since the product’s continued use can be a matter of life and death. Unfortunately, defective medical devices are a reality rather than a haunting myth.
While any product, medical or consumer, can fail, there are certain medical devices that are more prone to defects which could lead to serious harm for the patient, including:
- Drug-coated stents: A surgeon will insert a small tube into an artery to improve blood flow. Generally, the stent will slowly release drugs to prevent scarring or the closure of the newly opened artery. Unfortunately, defects can lead to infection, allergic reactions or stent migration.
- Hip, knee and shoulder replacements: These devices can represent complex machinery often tasked with supporting the body’s weight in movement and improve the patient’s overall quality of life. Unfortunately, defects in design, manufacturing and implantation can lead to infection or additional injuries to numerous body parts.
- Transvaginal mesh: This product is used to strengthen the vaginal wall to treat pelvic organ prolapse or stress incontinence. Unfortunately, the mesh can fail leading to the puncture of nearby organs which can result in internal bleeding. As the failed mesh erodes, the surgical procedure to remove it becomes more complicated.
Whether it is surgical instruments, implants, pacemakers or prosthetics, faulty and defective medical devices can lead to worsening conditions and devastating injuries. Under certain circumstances, these faulty medical devices can lead to fatalities. If you were injured or you have lost a loved one due to a defective product, it is crucial that you discuss your situation with an experienced legal professional.