
On October 15th, 2007, Medtronic issued a release suspending all sales of Sprint Fidelis leads. The electrical wire, which is integral in pacemaker functionality, has been recalled because of a reported defect that is potentially fatal to those implanted with the device. The wire is designed to serve as the bridge between a person’s heart and an implanted defibrillator.
In addition to suspending sales of all Sprint Fidelis leads, Medtronic are urging patients who have already been implanted with the lead to consult with their physician and have the potentially-faulty lead surgically removed. It is roughly estimated that as many as 235,000 patients around the world are implanted with the recalled Sprint Fidelis lead.
Sprint Fidelis leads marketed by Medtronic under the model numbers: the 6949 LFJ extendable/retractable screw fixation (S) model; the 6948 LFH tuned fixation (T) model; the 6931 LFT S fixation; and the 6930 LFK T fixation.
The defective Sprint Fidelis lead is believed responsible for as many as five deaths that have been reported in conjunction with patients implanted with the wire. In many cases, the wire spontaneously fractures, releasing a large electrical shock that can be extremely painful and potentially fatal.
Medtronic representatives have stated that they believe the defect to be a very low risk threat for Sprint Fidelis patients. However, in the wake of recent pacemaker recalls issued by Medtronic and Guidant, the Minneapolis-based company is attempting to handle the situation in a conservative manner that ensures public awareness. Unfortunately, this move does little to lessen the pain of those already victimized by the defect.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a defective Sprint Fidelis lead, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your pain, suffering, and medical costs. Medical device manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of their products before they are marketed. Failure to adequately measure and react to defective products is viewed as negligent and grounds for legal action.
The law offices of Justice Lawyers boasts a dedicated team of professionals and some of the most experienced personal injury lawyers Pensacola, Florida has to offer. Contact Justice Lawyers today at (877) 810 4808 to discuss your options as a Sprint Fidelis lead victimThe attorneys of the Law Office of Justice Lawyers are personal injury lawyers in Pensacola who protect victims of auto accidents, personal injury, wrongful death, defective drugs, consumer fraud, insurance fraud, product defects and defective medical devices, such as Guidant and Medtronic Pacemakers, and potentially harmful drugs, such as Ortho Evra. When you think of the top personal injury lawyers or car accident lawyers in Pensacola, think of Justice Lawyers.