Meshbesher & Spence is currently representing patients and families injured by the HeartMate 3 – a left ventricular assist device (“LVAD”) manufactured by Thoratec, LLC. If you suffered injuries you believe were caused by a defect in the HeartMate 3, or if a loved one sustained fatal injuries associated with this device, you may be entitled to compensation.
What is The HeartMate 3 LVAD?
The HeartMate 3 is designed to assist the function of a failing heart without replacing the heart itself. The HeartMate 3 is a continuous flow centrifugal pump that operates parallel to the heart and assists the weakened left ventricle by taking blood from the left ventricle and moving it to the ascending aorta. The pump operates continuously in an artificial pulse mode designed to mimic the biological pulsatile flow through rapid changes in pump speed. The HeartMate 3 can be used as a bridge-to-transplantation or as a long-term destination therapy.
Complications of the HeartMate 3 LVAD System:
The Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (“MAUDE”) database is a publicly available electronic warehouse of medical device reports submitted to the FDA by mandatory reporters (manufacturers, importers and device user facilities) and voluntary reporters such as health care professionals, patients and consumers. Multiple reports in the MAUDE database describe problems encountered during implantation of the HeartMate 3, including loose connections at the pump-apical cuff interface and bent/asymmetrical cuff lock arms. Some of these reports describe air entering the left ventricle and embolizing to the brain, which can cause stroke or cerebral infarction and lead to neurological problems such as:
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Difficulty speaking
- Persistent coma
- Death
Why Contact Meshbesher & Spence?
Unlike many firms who make big promises and then refer their cases to other attorneys, Meshbesher & Spence has experience with medical device litigation and will handle your HeartMate 3 LVAD case from beginning to end.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries as a result of a HeartMate 3, contact attorney Tony Nemo at Meshbesher & Spence today. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing until our Firm recovers fair compensation for you and your family.
