A Class I recall has been issued for a DePuy jaw implant as a result of an increased risk of injury or death. The Craniomaxillofacial (CMF) Distraction System is a medical device manufactured and marketed by DePuy Synthes. According to the recall notice, those most likely to sustain injuries include small children and infants who could potentially experience respiratory arrest or tracheal obstruction if the device were to fail. Contact Attorney Group for Alabama today to learn more about filing a DePuy jaw implant lawsuit if you believe you have a case.
CMF Distraction System Overview
The DePuy CMF Distraction System is an implant used to stabilize or lengthen the patient’s lower jawbone. It can be inserted into both adult and pediatric patients to fix post-traumatic injuries or birth defects via a process known as distraction, or the gradual lengthening of the bone.
FDA Issues a Recall
Although the device is designed to correct jaw abnormalities, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) noted in its recall that the CMF Distraction System may cause an obstruction of the throat and a constriction of the airway. Adults and children may be not be as likely to suffer complications because they are typically able to keep their airways open even in the event of a device failure. However, infants who have not yet developed this ability may potentially become strangled if the device reverses direction after implantation.
As of September 2014, 15 reports have been filed alleging injury caused by CMF devices. On April 26, 2014, DePuy issued a recall notification to hospitals and instructed facilities to stop using them. The FDA issued its Class I recall, the most serious recall the agency can issue, on August 28, 2014.
Patients who have been fitted with the device may require removal surgeries to replace or permanently remove the device, regardless of whether the patient is experiencing complications. Like plaintiffs filing DePuy hip replacement lawsuits, CMF victims may be eligible to file DePuy jaw implant lawsuits in Alabama to recover damages for their injuries. To find out whether you are eligible, contact Attorney Group for Alabama today for a free case evaluation.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your injuries, you may be eligible to seek compensation for part or all of your medical expenses, including procedures, treatments, hospital visits, and more. While compensation is never guaranteed, other potential damages may include lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering. For this reason, it is important to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can file a DePuy jaw implant lawsuit on your behalf and assist you throughout the legal process.
Eligible to File an Alabama DePuy Jaw Implant Lawsuit?
If you or someone you love received a DePuy jaw implant and subsequently suffered from complications or required a revision surgery, consider seeking legal counsel from Attorney Group for Alabama today. In a free, no-obligation consultation, we can help you determine whether you are eligible to file a DePuy jaw implant lawsuit. If you are, Attorney Group for Alabama can connect you with a local, affiliated attorney who can file you DePuy jaw implant lawsuit and allow you to focus on what matters most: recovery. Call today.
