The use a medical device is common for those who have serious medical conditions. The definition of a medical device is an apparatus, implant, or similar article that is used to diagnose, prevent, or treat diseases or conditions. A medical device does not use any substances but instead uses other means, such as thermal, mechanical, or physical means to perform its duties.
The medical device industry has experienced significant growth over the past few years as the baby boomer generation continues to grow older. Unfortunately as the number of devices being used continues to grow, so do the dangers. Although we turn to medical devices to prolong long life they can sometimes cause further medical damage and even lead to death. Health Canada and the United States Food and Drug Administration receive several hundred thousand reports of confirmed or possible medical device associated malfunctions, injuries, and deaths.
In Canada medical devices are placed into four different categories:
Class I includes devices that present the lowest risk ad do not require a licence, i.e. surgical devices
Class II – requires a manufacturer to declare the device safe and effective i.e. ultrasound scanners
Class III pose a large risk to consumers and require in-depth inspection i.e. orthopedic implants
Class IV also pose an increased risk and requires in-depth inspection i.e. pacemakers
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dangerous medical device, the victim may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. Our experienced defective medical device lawyers can help you fight for the MAXIMUM amount of compensation you deserve for your injuries.
For a no-obligation, no-cost review of your situation, fill out the FREE CASE REVIEW form to your right its completely confidential.
Recalled Medical Devices
Each day a new recall is announced either for a malfunctioning product, vehicle, or toxic food item. Medical device recalls are very serious and if a person is not made aware of the recall it could lead to serious complications.
Some recently recalled medical devices include:
- Insulin Pumps
- Pacemakers
- Catheters
- Coronary Stents
- Nails or Rods (Used for Fractures)
- Hip Replacement Units
- Syringes
- Lap Bands
- Defibrillators
The quality of these medical devices is overseen by Health Canada’s Medical Devices Program which works to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and quality. The program uses a combination of pre-market review, post-approval surveillance and quality system checks in the manufacturing process to try to ensure a medical devices safety. At Monforton and Partners we sympathize with how debilitating dealing with a malfunctioning medical device can be, and we believe you deserve to fight for your rights against the company or negligent parties that caused you harm.
Common Symptoms of Malfunctioning Medical Devices
There are hundreds of different types of medical devices available and depending on its need, the symptoms a person may experience varies. However, there are some communal symptoms persons dealing with this type of issue experience.
Some common symptoms include (but are not limited to):
- Relentless Pain
- Mood Swings
- Difficulty Moving (particularly the area affected)
- Headaches
- Nausea
There are many medical complications that occur when a product that is inserted into the human body is defective. Many times the complications are caught when it is too late and a person may experience lifelong issues due to the dangerous device.
Some frequently noted complications include:
- Internal Scarring
- Internal Bleeding
- Nerve Damage
- Chronic Pain
- Further Surgery
Due to the impediments that arise from these medical devices, surgery is often needed to either correct the issue or completely remove the device and insert a new one. Patients have to deal with even more surgical procedures as well as increased medical costs.
Reducing the Risk of Dangerous Medical Devices
Most of the time we turn to physicians, surgeons, and medical companies to provide us with a safe solution to our medical needs only to later find out they actually prolonged them.
As a consumer it is important to educate yourself about the device you or a loved one will be using. A person may choose to research the product online and can also check with Health Canada for any previously reported device issues.
Always be sure to have as much information you can about the product including:
- who manufactured it
- where it was manufactured
- who problems may be reported to
- documentation of any side-effects the victim may experience
Always be sure to report any side-effects to your medical doctor and to the Health Products and Food Branch Inspectorate (HPFBI) of Health Canada as your complaint about a product could be just one of thousands.
Contact out Windsor Dangerous Medical Device Lawyers
Dealing with a defective medical device can be very dangerous and lead to a lifelong issue which is something no person should ever have to deal with. If you, or a loved one, has been injured or suffered from medical complications caused by a dangerous medical device, our lawyers can provide comprehensive legal counsel to help you fight for your rights.
At Monforton and Partners we have opened our doors to injury victim and their loved ones since 1981. We have proudly represented many defective product victims and helped them fight for the MAXIMUM amount of compensation they deserved. Our office is located in Windsor, Ontario, and we also serve the surrounding areas, including:
- South Walkerville
- Devonshire Heights
- South Cameron
- Fontainebleau
and further surrounding neighborhoods. To find out how we may be able to help you with your claim, contact us at (866) 320-4770 for a free, no-obligation initial case review with one of our knowledgeable lawyers.
If you prefer to contact us online, simply fill out the FREE CASE REVIEW form at the top right hand corner of this page its 100% FREE to submit and completely confidential.