Medtronic Sprint Fidelis Leads Recalled
On Oct. 15, 2007, Medtronic suspended all sales of Sprint Fidelis leads.
The electrical wire, integral to pacemaker functionality, has been recalled
because of a reported defect that is potentially fatal to those implanted with
the device. The wire serves as the bridge between a person's heart and an implanted
defibrillator.
In addition to suspending sales of all Sprint Fidelis leads, Medtronic is
urging patients who have already been implanted with the lead to consult with
their physician and have the potentially faulty lead surgically removed.
As many as 235,000 patients around the world are estimated to be implanted
with the recalled Sprint Fidelis lead.
Here is a list of the Sprint Fidelis leads marketed by Medtronic:
the 6949 LFJ extendable/retractable screw fixation (S) model;
the 6948 LFH tuned fixation (T) model;
the 6931 LFT S fixation;
and the 6930 LFK T fixation.
Sprint Fidelis Lead Defect
The defective Sprint Fidelis lead is believed responsible for as many as five deaths
of patients implanted with the wire. In many cases, the wire spontaneously fractures,
releasing an electrical shock that can be extremely painful and potentially fatal.
Medtronic representatives have stated that they believe the defect to pose a very low risk
threat for Sprint Fidelis patients. However, in the wake of recent pacemaker recalls
issued by Medtronic and Guidant, the Minneapolis-based company is attempting to handle the
situation in a conservative manner that ensures public awareness. Unfortunately, this move
does little to reduce the pain of those already victimized by the defect.
Sprint Fidelis Lawsuits
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a defective Sprint Fidelis lead,
you may be entitled to receive compensation for your pain, suffering, and medical costs.
Medical device manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of their
products before they are marketed. Failure to adequately measure and react to
defective products is viewed as negligent and grounds for legal action.
The law office of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis, and Overholtz boasts a dedicated
team of professionals and some of the most experienced personal injury lawyers that
Pensacola, Florida has to offer. Contact AWKO LAW today at (888) 255-AWKO (2956) to
discuss your options as a Sprint Fidelis lead victim.
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