Shoulder surgery pain pumps linked to cartilage loss

For several years, orthopedic surgeons have been mystified by unexplained cartilage loss seen in some patients following arthroscopic shoulder surgery.  Recent studies have linked the devastating complication to the use of should surgery pain pumps to infuse medication directly to the surgical site.  The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing potential shoulder surgery pain pump lawsuits nationwide.

The condition, known as postarthroscopic glenohumeral chondrolysis (PAGCL), causes rapid cartilage loss in the shoulder.  It is associated with an increase in pain and loss of range of motion which starts to surface several months after the original shoulder surgery.  Individuals who develop PAGCL often require a complete shoulder replacement surgery and are left with lifelong pain and shoulder problems.

The October 2007 issue of The American Journal of Sports Medicine (AJSM) contains a republication of a recent study which provides clear evidence that the painful cartilage loss is linked to pain pumps used after some arthroscopic surgeries to help individuals manage their pain.  The study, which was originally printed in the July 2007 issue, was published again since many orthopedic surgeons remain unaware of the problems associated with the use of infusion pumps.

In the study, researchers reviewed 177 cases of arthroscopic shoulder surgery which were performed during a 19 month period.  All of the individuals who developed postarthroscopic glenohumeral chondrolysis (PAGCL) had undergone arthroscopic shoulder stablization procedures and were sent home with intra-articular pain pump catheters containing bupivacaine and epinephrine.  The aurthers strongly recommend that these shoulder pain pumps not be used, as 64% of the individuals who were given a pump developed the devastating cartilage loss.

Post arthroscopic glenohumeral chondrolysis (PAGCL) is a relatively new condition which has only been seen in recent years as doctors have increased the use of high flow shoulder pain pumps.  Simple alternatives, such as oral pain medications, could have been used to manage the post surgery pain and prevent this painful condition for hundreds of people.

The makers of the the shoulder surgery pain pumps agressively marketed their products to orthopedic surgeons, but failed to warn about the serious and disabling complications.  As a result, individuals with correctable shoulder problems are left with permanent cartilage loss and life-long disability.

If you, a friend or family member experienced cartilage loss following use of an arthroscopic shoulder surgery pain pump, financial compensation may be available.  Request a free consultation and claim evaluation.