Clark Love & Hutson
Bg Banner
Clark Love & Hutson

The Nationally Recognized Plaintiffs Litigation
Law Firm

The Nationally Recognized Plaintiffs Litigation Law Firm

Why might a medical device be recalled?

On Behalf of | Jan 31, 2023 | Defective Medical Device Litigation |

Medical advancements have been a blessing to many people in Texas, throughout the United States and all over the world. Part of that is the creation and implementation of medical devices. For those who have needed these products, whether it is a hip replacement, a knee replacement, vaginal mesh, pacemakers or any other device, there is undoubtedly relief at their improved quality of life.

However, it is an unfortunate fact that some products have issues after they have been implanted. This may cause health complications and even death to those who are using them. When there is a problem, recalls are put into effect. This is to protect the public from the dangers these devices present and to try and find solutions for them

Those who have already gotten these devices implanted should be fully up to date on why recalls occur and what options are available to pursue the manufacturer and anyone else responsible through legal means.

What happens when there is a recall?

There are two aspects to a recall. There can be a correction to deal with an issue the medical device might have. This is done where it has been used or sold. Or there can be a removal, taking it off the market.

A recall can happen because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration wants the manufacturer to address the problem with the device as it may violate the law. A defective device is also recalled when it could harm its users.

It is important to note that simply because there is a recall does not automatically mean there is an inherent danger. Some reasons for the recall are relatively minor. A simple adjustment or repair may be needed. Still, that could be a hardship to some.

The company that made the product can issue the recall. The FDA can also mandate that the product be recalled. There are three classifications of risk for a recall:

  • Class I means that the person who has the device and is using it could face serious health challenges or lose their lives because of it.
  • Class II means the health problem from the device is temporary or reversible with a minor chance of long-term damage or death.
  • Class III is when there is limited chance of a health problem or damage to its user.

People concerned about a medical recall or who were harmed should have help

An example might be a person who needed a hip replacement, received it and was told later that there are dangers inherent with the type of device that was used. Perhaps the person suffered an infection, fell because it was faulty or had another incident that led to injuries, long-term damage or death.

Whenever there is a recall of a medical device, it is imperative to have help with understanding how to pursue a claim. Often, these cases have many victims, so direct attention to a person’s plight is as essential as knowing how to deal with a large-scale medical device recall claim where there have been myriad complaints. Calling professionals who have a wealth of experience in these cases can be vital from the beginning.