Cartilage loss after shoulder arthroscopy linked to use of pain pump
Shoulder arthroscopy is generally considered a surgery without a substantial risk of complications, especially when compared with open surgery. However, some people have suffered severe shoulder cartilage loss following the use of a pain pumps designed to infuse medication during the days after the arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals who are pursuing a shoulder arthroscopy pump lawsuit against the manufacturers of these devices for failing to warn about the risk of this debilitating and painful complication.
In recent years, some doctors have elected to prescribe a shoulder pain pump as an alternative to narcotic pain medications. A disposable pump and catheter are put in place to deliver medication directly to the surgical site for a few days after shoulder arthroscopy. However, the manufacturers of the shoulder pain pumps failed to warn that they could lead to the development of glenohumeral chondrolysis, which is a severe and life-altering problem.
Also known as PAGCL, glenohumeral chondrolysis involves progressive shoulder cartilage loss. This causes severe pain and loss of motion which begin to appear during the months after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Cartilage loss symptoms could include:
- Shoulder pain
- Clicking, Popping or Grinding
- Stiffness or Weakness
- Decreased Range of Motion
A chondrolysis diagnosis may be made after xrays reveal concentric, global glenohumeral cartilage loss, with bone on bone contact between the humeral head and glenoid. There is no cure for the post-shoulder arthroscopy cartilage loss, and the damage can not be reversed. Treatments such as activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy may be recommended, but are often not successful in relieving the severe pain and limitations caused by the condition. In most cases, chondrolysis leads to a shoulder arthroplasty, or total shoulder replacement surgery.
SHOULDER CARTILAGE LOSS LAWSUITS
The product liability lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing potential shoulder arthroscopy pump lawsuits for cartilage loss. If you, a friend or family member have experienced problems after the use of a shoulder pain pump, financial compensation may be available. There are no fees or expenses unless a recovery is obtained. Request a free shoulder pain pump claim evaluation.
