New York City Abiomed Impella Heart Pump Injury Lawyers
Medical advancements have brought about groundbreaking innovations aimed at improving patient outcomes, particularly for those with severe cardiac conditions. Among these innovations is the Impella heart pump, a device that has become an essential tool for cardiologists performing high-risk procedures. However, while the Impella heart pump has saved many lives, it has also been linked to serious injuries and complications. If you or a loved one has been adversely affected by this device, you may be entitled to compensation through an Impella heart pump injury lawsuit.
Understanding the Impella Heart Pump
The Impella heart pump, manufactured by Abiomed, Inc., is a percutaneous ventricular assist device (VAD) used to support the heart’s function in patients undergoing complex procedures or experiencing cardiogenic shock after a heart attack. The device is inserted via a catheter into the left ventricle, where it assists in pumping blood into the aorta, thus reducing the workload on the heart and allowing it to recover.
While the Impella heart pump is designed for temporary use, usually for a few hours to several days, it plays a critical role in stabilizing patients during life-threatening situations. However, its use is not without risks, and some patients have experienced severe complications that have led to long-term damage or even death.
The Risks and Complications of the Impella Heart Pump
Though the Impella heart pump is intended to be a life-saving device, it can sometimes cause more harm than good. Some of the most serious complications associated with the Impella heart pump include:
- Severe Bleeding: The invasive nature of the Impella procedure increases the risk of severe bleeding, especially in patients with pre-existing bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy. Excessive bleeding can lead to hemodynamic instability, requiring further medical intervention and increasing the risk of mortality.
- Stroke: The catheterization process involved in placing the Impella device can dislodge blood clots or plaque within the arteries, leading to a stroke. A stroke can have devastating effects, including permanent disability or death.
- Cardiac and Blood Vessel Damage: The insertion and positioning of the Impella heart pump can cause trauma to the heart and blood vessels. This damage can result in internal bleeding, the formation of blood clots, or the need for additional surgeries to repair the injured tissues.
- Infection: Any invasive procedure carries a risk of infection, and the Impella heart pump is no exception. Infections related to the use of the device can be difficult to treat, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems, and can lead to serious complications or sepsis.
- Device Malfunction: While rare, the Impella device can malfunction, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes. Malfunctions can occur due to defects in the device itself or errors during its placement or operation, leading to heart failure, organ damage, or death.
These complications not only place the patient’s life at risk but also result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens for the affected families. It is in these situations that a legal recourse becomes critical.
Legal Grounds for an Impella Heart Pump Injury Lawsuit
If you or a loved one has suffered complications or injuries due to the Impella heart pump, you may be considering legal action. The basis for an Impella heart pump injury lawsuit typically includes the following:
- Product Liability: Medical device manufacturers have a duty to design and produce safe products. If the Impella heart pump was defectively designed, improperly manufactured, or inadequately tested, resulting in your injury, you may have a product liability claim. This claim can address issues such as design flaws, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn of potential risks.
- Medical Malpractice: The success of the Impella heart pump depends heavily on the skill and care of the medical professionals who implant and monitor the device. If your healthcare provider was negligent in the use of the Impella heart pump—whether by improper placement, failure to monitor, or lack of informed consent—you may have grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit. Proving negligence involves demonstrating that the standard of care was breached, directly resulting in your injury.
- Failure to Warn: If the manufacturer of the Impella heart pump failed to provide adequate warnings or instructions regarding the risks associated with the device, they could be held liable for any resulting injuries. This can include insufficient warnings on the device labeling, marketing materials, or in communications with healthcare providers.
Why You Should Consider Filing a Lawsuit
Filing an Impella heart pump injury lawsuit can be a daunting process, but it is a necessary step in seeking justice and compensation for your injuries. Here are some key reasons why you should consider taking legal action:
- Compensation for Damages: A successful lawsuit can help you recover compensation for a wide range of damages, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. This compensation can be essential in helping you and your family recover financially from the impact of your injury.
- Holding Responsible Parties Accountable: Medical device manufacturers and healthcare providers must be held accountable for their actions. By filing a lawsuit, you are not only seeking justice for yourself but also helping to protect future patients from similar harm. Your case can bring attention to the dangers associated with the Impella heart pump and potentially lead to changes in how the device is used or even improvements in its design.
- Promoting Patient Safety: Legal action can lead to increased scrutiny of medical devices like the Impella heart pump. By challenging manufacturers and healthcare providers in court, you can help promote greater transparency, stricter regulations, and higher standards for patient safety.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Legal Representation
The complexities involved in an Impella heart pump injury lawsuit require the expertise of a seasoned attorney who specializes in medical device litigation. At Douglas & London, our team of experienced NYC product liability attorneys are dedicated to helping patients and their families navigate the legal process with confidence and peace of mind.
We understand the challenges you face and are committed to providing you with personalized, compassionate legal representation. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Defective Medical Device Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to the Impella heart pump, it is crucial to take action quickly. Statutes of limitations may apply to your case, limiting the time you have to file a lawsuit. Don’t wait—contact our NYC toxic exposure lawyers today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our legal team will review your case, provide you with an honest assessment of your legal options, and guide you through every step of the process.
