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On October 15th, 2007, Medtronic, the world's leading maker of implantable heart devices, has recalled nearly 268,000 of its Sprint Fidelis defibrillator leads implanted in patients worldwide because of potential defects in the devices. Implanted defibrillators shock the heart back into a normal rhythm when it starts beating irregularly.
The following is a list of the defective Medtronic Sprint Fidelis Defibrillator Leads:
- Sprint Fidelis® 6930
- Sprint Fidelis® 6931
- Sprint Fidelis® 6948
- Sprint Fidelis® 6949
These model numbers will appear on the patient card given after the defibrillator is implanted. These defective leads have been used and could be a part of any defibrillator system implanted since 2004. Sprint Fidelis leads are used with defibrillators manufactured by Medtronic, but may have also been used also by other companies such as Guidant, Boston Scientific, and St. Jude. Any patient who is not sure should check with their health care provider.
The Medtronic recall and suspention of sales of the Sprint Fidelis family of defibrillator leads is due to the potential for lead fractures. There have been reports of five patient deaths and other serious, life-threatening complications. According to reports, approximately 4,000 to 5,000 people could experience a lead fracture during the first 30 months after implantation of the device. The default of a Lead could occur an audible alert, a sudden, severe and painful electrical shock or battery depletion. Serious and potentially fatal injuries could be caused by a fractured lead.
It is recommended by The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) that Patients who have had the Sprint Fidelis lead implanted consult their physician immediately, especially if they have experienced multiple shocks, lightheadedness, fainting, or palpitations.
Legal Rights of Injured Parties / Proving Your Damages
The law in most states provides individuals with legal rights to seek compensation for injuries they incurred as a result of a defective product or the negligence of another. The injured party may file a lawsuit seeking recovery for his or her pain and suffering, past and future loss of wages, medical expenses and other damages that may be proven.
We are aware of the types of experts needed to prove the catastrophic injuries that are often associated with this type of litigation and we understand how to demonstrate the effects of these types of injuries to a court or jury. We are experienced and are able to properly present evidence concerning the cost of future medical care and rehabilitation costs as well as economic losses through the use of qualified experts including economists and life care planning experts.
Representatives of our firm are available to meet personally with a prospective client/family on a nationwide basis at your convenience.
Do you have a claim? Contact us or call us at 1-800-899-7102.
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