DePuy Synthes, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, recalled its Craniomaxillofacial (CMF) Distraction System, a jaw-stabilizing device, because it can allegedly reverse direction and cause tracheal obstruction, respiratory distress, or death. The defect has reportedly been linked to 15 injuries as of September 2014. Attorney Group for Kentucky is currently reviewing CMF Distraction System injury cases. If you or a loved one believe you were harmed, contact Attorney Group for Kentucky today for a free, no obligation consultation to determine whether you are eligible to seek compensation for your injuries.
Overview
The Craniomaxillofacial Distraction System was designed to gradually stabilize and lengthen the lower jawbone until the jaw is in its appropriate location. It was meant for infants born with birth defects as well as adults and children who either had a traumatic injury to the jaw or who have congenital abnormalities.
What is the Problem?
On August 28, 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Class I recall because the implant can potentially reverse direction, causing an obstruction of the airway. According to the FDA, infants are most at risk in the event of a device failure because sudden tracheal obstruction can occur, causing respirator arrest or death. Adults and children who can “breathe around” the obstruction have a smaller risk of injury. However, early device failure regardless of age typically requires revision or removal procedures to correct the damage caused by the device.
DePuy Notified Hospitals in April 2014
DePuy issued a recall on April 16, 2014, asking the medical community to remove the affected products from their inventory lots. Hospitals were also provided with instructions on how to contact the company to return the products. According to the recall notice, the affected lots were sold between November 3, 2009 and April 14, 2014.
As a result of the recall, affected patients may consider working with a DePuy jaw implant lawyer to seek compensation for pain and suffering, lost income, medical expenses, and other damages that may pertain to their case. Though compensation is never guaranteed, a DePuy jaw implant lawyer in Kentucky can work to help you seek the compensation to which you may be entitled.
A DePuy Jaw Implant Lawyer in Kentucky Can Help
Attorney Group for Kentucky is currently reviewing potential lawsuits on behalf of those wishing to work with a DePuy jaw implant lawyer in Kentucky. If you or someone you love was implanted with a CMF device that you believe is responsible for your injuries, contact Attorney Group for Kentucky today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We can help determine whether you are eligible to recover damages for your injuries and, if you are, we can put you in touch with a local affiliated DePuy jaw implant lawyer. He or she can file a lawsuit on your behalf and assist you throughout the legal process. Call today.
