Medical Device Errors

Many people suffer from certain types of conditions that require monitoring and the help of some sort of medical device to maintain and regulate vital body functions. These devices are often lifesaving for patients, provided they are used correctly and function in the way they are intended. Unfortunately, when errors occur, the ramifications for the patient and their families can be severe. At the law office of Cohen, Placitella & Roth, P.C., we understand the dangers posed by medical device errors and the serious impacts these errors can have on your physical, emotional, and financial health. We stand up for the rights of those who have suffered injuries, so they can get the compensation they need to recover.

Problems With Medical Devices

Medical devices include everything from basic hospital supplies and lab equipment to advanced technological aids, such as internal monitors and artificial body parts and organs. According to the advocacy group Consumer Reports, while tens of millions of patients rely on these types of devices to diagnose, manage, and maintain a variety of health conditions, these products are loosely regulated and often lack thorough testing before being put on the market. With little regulation or standardized procedure for reporting potential problems, medical device defects and errors often go undetected until a significant number of patient injuries or deaths occur.

Medical Device Recalls and Safety Alerts

When there are multiple reported problems or errors concerning a specific medical device, a product safety alert or recall may be issued by the Food and Drug Administration. In 2015 alone, more than 30 different types of medical devices were recalled for posing potential dangers to patients, including the following:

• Diagnostic devices, used for both hospital and in home testing, such as lab equipment and home test strips;
• External devices, used by hospitals to regulate vital functions, such as heart pumps and ventilators;
• Internal maintenance devices, used to maintain organ function, such as pacemakers and coronary stents;
• Implanted devices, used to correct damage and injuries, such as surgical mesh and artificial joints.

Let Us Assist You Today

If you or someone you care about has suffered complications due to medical device errors, contact the law office of Cohen, Placitella & Roth, P.C. today. Our experienced medical malpractice attorneys can advise you on how to hold product manufacturers and medical providers responsible for the injuries these devices cause, so that you can get the compensation you deserve.