Medical advances, including the development of medical devices, have helped people live longer and fuller lives. For example, CBS News reports that more than 600,000 knee replacements and 400,000 hip replacements are performed each year in the United States. While these devices often allow people to remain active, they are not immune to defects. Like any manufactured product, a medical device can be flawed, and when it is, the consequences for the patient’s health can be devastating.
If you believe you have been harmed by a faulty implant or other device, a Roanoke defective medical device lawyer at MichieHamlett can help. We will review your case, explain your options, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our seasoned product liability attorneys today to learn more.
Medical devices are used in almost every single medical procedure that is done. Some devices are implanted into the patient, while others are used by doctors to help complete the procedure or are used by an individual at home. Some products, such as warming blankets, are used preoperative, during the operation, and postoperatively. According to the Expert Institute, devices that are used to treat the cardiovascular system, such as in vitro diagnostics (IVD), and general surgical devices, make up 32 percent of all medical device claims. Other devices that have been known to result in lawsuits include:
Defective medical devices may lead to serious complications, additional surgeries, or long-term health problems. When this happens, patients have the right to explore legal options for compensation.
Defective medical devices can cause significant harm, often leaving patients with complications that are far worse than the condition the device was meant to treat. These injuries vary in severity and may create long-term or even permanent consequences.
Injuries Caused by Defective Medical Devices:
When a defective device causes these kinds of injuries, patients and their families often face overwhelming medical costs, lost income, and emotional distress. Legal action could provide a path to seek accountability and compensation.
When a medical device is developed, there are three possible ways it can become dangerous. First, it could be a defective design from the start. Second, it could be manufactured improperly. Lastly, a company that fails to warn users of the potential side effects or dangers of the medical device can also be held accountable for any injuries that result. Drug Watch states that there are over 175,000 medical devices on the market that are overseen by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While this may lead you to believe they are inherently safe, even products that have passed testing phases can be recalled or taken off the market. If you are suffering complications after a medical procedure, it is important to recognize that a medical device may be the reason for your symptoms.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a medical device you believe was defective, it is critical to seek guidance from an experienced Roanoke defective medical device lawyer at MichieHamlett. Recovering from these injuries often requires additional medical care, time away from work, and other costly burdens—on top of the pain and suffering you endure. Our attorneys have the skill and dedication to pursue damages and fight for the best possible outcome in complex medical device cases. For help, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.