Tens of thousands of Americans rely on implantable pacemakers and defibrillators—cardiac devices that deliver electrical currents and/or shocks to the heart to keep it beating at a normal rhythm. In recent years, two different brands of implantable pacemakers and defibrillators—Guidant and Medtronic—have been subject to extensive recalls because of device defects. Unfortunately, malfunctioning cardiac devices such as these can have devastating consequences, including heart failure and death.
If you or someone you love has been implanted with one of the recalled Guidant/Medtronic heart devices, you may be entitled to compensation for your emotional, physical, and/or financial losses. Please contact Lopez McHugh today for a complimentary case evaluation with a product liability attorney experienced with defective medical equipement. Our attorneys and staff can help you understand your legal rights and ensure they are protected.
Guidant Recall
In July 2005, the Food and Drug Administration issued a recall on various models of Guidant pacemakers/defibrillators, which have since been linked to as many as 45 instances of malfunction and two deaths. Models affected by the recall include:
- Pulsar®, Pulsar Max
- Discover®, Discovery II
- Meridian
- Contak TR®
- Virtus Plus® II
- Intelis II
Individuals who have been implanted with one of these devices and experience shortness of breath, lightheadedness, dizziness, rapid heart rate, or loss of consciousness should consult with a physician immediately.
Medtronic Recall
The heart device maker Medtronic issued a recall in February 2005 because of potential battery malfunction in certain models of its implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (CRT-Ds). Affected models include Marquis™ and Maximo™ VR/DR ICDs and InSync I/II/III Marquis™ and InSync III Protect™ CRT-Ds.
Protect Your Legal Rights
If you or someone you love has been implanted with a defective Guidant/Medtronic pacemaker or defibrillator, it is important to ensure your legal rights are protected. Please contact us today to have your case evaluated. We will gladly answer all your questions, and keep you informed on your case throughout its course.
