Medtronic Lead Recall
View PDF | Print View
by: Robert Whitney
Total views: 3
Word Count: 558
Sprint Fidelis are the nothing but special models of cardiac electrodes which connect a defibrillator directly to the heart. It is considered to be the most widely used technique and trusted by doctors all over the globe.
Medtronic recalls sprint is one of the most effective instrument used in treating the heart patients. They are manufactured by Medtronic Inc. The function of a defibrillator is to protect the patients from irregular heart-rhythms which may prove life-threatening if go un-monitored. Defibrillator either delivers an electric shock or rapid pacing so as to compensate for the abnormal heart rhythms.
Medtronic recently announced that it is suspending the worldwide distribution of their Sprint Fidelis models. This includes Sprint Fidelis 6930, Sprint Fidelis 6931, Sprint Fidelis 6948 along with the Sprint Fidelis 6949. One can check their patient card to verify if they are implanted with any of these mentioned models. Medtronic recall is concerned with only these models of Medtronic leads and should not be lined with other defibrillators which do not have aforementioned Sprint Fidelis lead numbers. Also, this does not link with any other Medtronic products such as pacemakers.
The Medtronic recall came into action because certain Sprint Fidelis models have a potential for developing fractures. This can lead to an unnecessary shock to the patient or can result in total non-operation, at worst. Some deaths and serious heart injuries have already been reported as well as the likely cause can be the fracture developed in the Sprint Fidelis models, though this has not been proves conclusively as yet. They can very well be a contributing factor, though.
As of October 2007 studies, there were approximately 268000 Sprint Fidelis leads were implanted all around the world out of which US alone has 172000 patients. Following things have been suggested to deal with the Medtronic recall class action:
1. Those patients who already are implanted with Sprint Fidelis leads should contact with their physicians. This is especially important if they have experienced symptoms like fainting, palpitations, lightheadedness and most importantly, multiple shocks.
2. Patients who have been confirmed with the implantation of Sprint Fidelis leads should NOT immediately seek the removal of the same. The re-implantation risk severely exceeds the risk posed by lead fractures. One can continue to closely monitor the lead for any signs of possible fracture. Another way of minimizing the risk is to add a second lead while still keeping the Sprint Fidelis lead intact. In such cases, the Medtronic lead is simply ‘capped’ without the need of its actual removal.
Patients can make use of the Medtronic toll free number. Medtronic has also provided a practical guidance to physicians for reducing the risk factor in affected patients. They also offer assistance in setting up the defibrillator devices which can monitor the leads in more effective ways.
One is also free to pursue any lawsuit class action against Medtronic, should they have such desire. Many law firms have appointed Medtronic defibrillator lead recall lawyers that thoroughly review each individual case and offer helpful suggestions and guidelines for proceeding further. Several online forums see irritated and worried patients venting out their frustration over the Medtronic recall action.
About the Author
Robert Whitney is author of article written on Medtronic recall & Medtronic class action. For more information, please visit :www.medtronicleadrecallcenter.com
Rating: Not yet rated