Guidant Heart Devices

In 2005, Guidant Corporation recalled over one hundred thousand defibrillators and pacemakers. These devices were surgically implanted into individuals who had an abnormal heart rhythm, often considered a life threatening condition. When working correctly, the devices restore normal rhythm by sending an electric shock to the heart. Failure of the device can lead to the subsequent failure of the heart, resulting in a heart attack and death. Guidant issued a recall after several people died due to its malfunctioning products. This recall affected thousands of people, who face the difficult decision of leaving a potentially faulty device in place or electing to have a second major surgery to remove it.

If you or a loved one has been affected by the recall of Guidant heart devices, please call us today at 617-225-2100, to speak to one of our experienced Boston medical malpractice attorneys. We have offices in Boston, Cambridge, and Quincy and can offer a free evaluation of your case.

Defective Defibrillators And Pacemakers

Several versions of Guidant's defibrillators have a product defect that causes the device to short circuit when it needs to deliver an electric shock. Thus, the defibrillator fails to do the task that it is designed for and puts its user in grave danger. Versions of Guidant's pacemakers have also been recalled. The pacemaker's seal suffers from a design defect that allows moisture into the wiring, adversely affecting the circuit. The pacemaker then fails to monitor the patient's heart rate, or in several extreme cases, maintains a dangerously rapid heart rate.

Consult A Physician As Soon As Possible

The FDA has not made any recommendations as to whether an individual should have a Guidant heart device removed or replaced. Patients should visit their doctor for an evaluation before making any decision. Through instructions issued by Guidant, doctors can perform a test to determine if the pacemaker is leaking. However, there is no guarantee that a properly functioning pacemaker will continue function correctly in the future. Both defibrillators and pacemakers that have been recalled may not give any warning signs before malfunctioning.

A malfunctioning heart device can have very serious consequences, including dizziness, sudden loss of consciousness, heart attack, and death. Whether you have already elected to undergo surgery to replace the heart device, or you still working with your doctor to make a decision, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a Boston medical malpractice lawyer at Bellotti Law Group, P.C. today. The attorneys at Bellotti Law Group, P.C. cover a variety of personal injury cases, such as auto accidents, slips and falls, etc. Call 617-225-2100 for a free consultation.