At Phillips Law Group, our team is dedicated to representing individuals who have suffered severe injuries due to the use of dangerous or defective medical devices, such as forced-air warming blankets utilized during surgery. These devices, commonly used to regulate a patient’s body temperature, have been linked to serious complications, including deep joint infections and other life-altering conditions. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a forced-air warming blanket, our experienced attorneys are here to help you pursue justice and compensation.
What Are Forced-Air Warming Blankets?
Forced-air warming systems, such as those manufactured by 3M and its subsidiary, Bair Hugger, are designed to prevent hypothermia during surgical procedures. Heated air is piped through the medical device and into a blanket that is then placed over the patient during surgery to prevent their body temperature from dropping during the procedure. Forced-air warming blankets assist with maintaining body temperature so the patient doesn’t suffer a complication such as hypothermia.
However, studies and lawsuits allege that these devices can disrupt airflow in operating rooms and the heat from the blanket can cause air to rise and carry bacteria with it. This may potentially cause bacteria and contaminants to spread to surgical sites.
Unfortunately, that may all ultimately result in devastating infections, particularly in joint replacement surgeries, where patients may develop periprosthetic joint infections. These infections often require additional surgeries, long-term antibiotic treatments, the need for debridement (removal of dead tissue), or amputation, according to Northwestern Medicine. In the end, the patient may be left to deal with permanent disability.
Forced-Air Warming Blanket Lawsuits
Some affected patients have chosen to file lawsuits against the manufacturers of forced-air warming blankets, claiming that they knew or should have known about the risks associated with their products but failed to provide adequate warnings to the medical community or the public. Our firm can help with this type of litigation, fighting for the rights of injured patients.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take, and we are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. This may include damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
If you believe your surgical infection or complications were caused by a forced-air warming blanket, it’s important to act quickly and to discuss your legal options with a personal injury attorney. Please don’t hesitate to contact Phillips Law Group today for a free, no-obligation, confidential consultation.
Our compassionate legal team will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and guide you through the process of seeking justice. Call 602-222-2222 to learn more now.
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