Many with recalled Medtronic defibrillator wires have not taken steps to protect their legal rights

By Austin Kirk
Posted February 11, 2008

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It has been nearly four months since a recall was issued for Medtronic defibrillator wires known as Sprint Fidelis leads. Over 235,000 of these small electrical wires have been implanted in heart patients to connect their defibrillator to the heart. Potential Medtronic lawsuits are being pursued by the lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk for all individuals who have had one of these wires implanted. However, many individuals who may be entitled to financial compensation still have not taken steps to protect their legal rights.

>>INFORMATION: Medtronic Defibrillator Wire Lawsuits

On October 15, 2007, a Medtronic recall was issued for all models of the Sprint Fidelis lead (model numbers with 6930, 6931, 6948 or 6949). The small defibrillator wires were found to be prone to fractures or breaks, which could cause the defibrillator to malfunction by delivering inadvertent shocks or failing to provide necessary treatment if the heart becomes unstable.

Letters have been sent to most individuals who have one of the recalled Medtronics defibrillator wires implanted. Despite the potential risk of failure, individuals are often unable to have the defective defibrillator wire removed, since the risks associated with such a procedure can be even higher than the risk associated with leaving the lead in place.

According to Medtronics initial estimates, the Sprint Fidelis defibrillator wires have a 2.3% failure rate at 30 months after they are implanted. Given the 235,000 leads implanted, these conservative estimates indicate that over 5,000 people could suffer a wire fracture. However, many experts expect that number to be substantially higher as follow up data is reviewed in future years.

Defibrillator leads are considered a permanent device, and even if the actual defibrillator is replaced, any new device is usually connected to the existing leads. The defibrillator wires are inserted into the veins leading to the heart and it is risky to try to remove them after scar tissue forms around the lead. The longer they remain in place, the more the thin electrical wires are exposed to the stress and strains associated with body movements, potentially increasing the risk of a defibrillator malfunction in future years.

Even if an individual’s Medtronic Sprint Fidelis lead does not currently have any signs of failure, they still have legal rights which must be protected. All individuals who have one of the recalled Medtronic defibrillator wires face a lifetime of emotional distress over the risk of potential problems, possible limitations on their ability to participate in certain activities and medical expenses associated with increased monitoring for potential problems.

MEDTRONIC DEFIBRILLATOR WIRE LAWSUITS

The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk are reviewing potential Medtronic defibrillator wire lawsuits throughout the United States. If you, a friend or family member have had a cardiac defibrillator implanted since 2004, one of the defective defibrillator leads could have been used. To determine if you, a friend or family member may be eligible for financial compensation, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.