Ventricular Assist Device

Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Litigation

WHAT IS A VAD? A ventricular assist device is a mechanical heart pump. The device can be implanted in the chest or worn outside the body. A VAD is not an artificial heart, but it is a mechanical pump that is designed to help increase the blood flow in a diseased or damaged heart. Complications related to the device are excessive bleeding, infection, device malfunction, and blood clotting.

Lawsuits Involving VADS

Do I have a VAD case?

The only way to determine whether or not you or your loved one has grounds to bring a lawsuit for is to consult with a competent attorney who will review the records and seek the assistance of competent medical professionals.

WHAT ARE SOME BAD RESULTS THAT MAY INDICATE YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE WAS A VICTIM OF NEGLIGENCE?

Infections

VAD-related infection is probably the leading complication and side-effect of this device. The most common cause of infection stems from gram positive bacteria such as staph aureus or enterococci, although gram negative bacteria such as pseudomonas or klebsiella and fungal infections such as candidiasis are also a concern.

Clotting Problems

Because the devices are artificial, and require blood flowing over an artificial machine, clotting problems can occur. Anticoagulation measures must be undertaken when implanting a device such as the VAD and care must be taken to ensure that a clot does not form and migrate to the brain, heart, or other areas of the body causing serious injury.

Mechanical Failure

Several of the ventricular assist devices (VADs), have been recalled over the years, the latest being the Thoratec's TLC-2 Portable Ventricular Assist Device. This particular VAD was recalled due to an earlier than expected wear out of the compressor motor.

Doctor Error

The implantation of a VAD in a patient is highly profitable for physicians and hospitals. The VAD itself costs over $60,000, and between the hospital and the surgeon, the fees could be in excess of $100,000. Care should be taken by the physician to make sure that each patient is a viable candidate for the implantation of the ventricular assist device. However, not all physicians are created equal, and since the financial motive for implantation of the VADs is high, care should be taken in reviewing whether the patient is a good candidate for this device. There should be a team approach at the hospital with some kind of Board oversight to ensure that only appropriate candidates receive the implant.

HOW DO I PROCEED IF I BELIEVE I AM THE VICTIM OF NEGLIGENCE CONCERNING IMPLANTATION OF A VAD?

If you or someone close to you believe that you have been injured as a result of the implantation of a ventricular assist device due to a defect, or error by a physician, you should contact this law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation, and we can certainly help you find the answers to the questions you have in this regard. Please have all of your pertinent medical information and dates of service available when you contact our office. Call (800) 223-3352 or CLICK HERE to complete the online form.