Medtronic Defibrillators
Medtronic announced the recall of several models of its implanted defibrillators on February 3, 2005. The defibrillator devices were recalled because of battery shortage possibilities which could cause them to fail. The failure of these devices presents a life-threatening situation. The battery problem affects the Marquis line of Medtronics which includes the brand names Marquis, Maximo and InSynch. It is estimated that as many as 87,000 of these devices were implanted in patients prior to 2003.
Medtronic’s alert is for the following defibrillator models:
- 7230 Marquis ™ VR
- 7274 Marquis ™ DR
- 7232 Maximo ™ VR
- 7278 Maximo ™ DR
- 7277 InSync Marquis™
- 7289 InSync II Marquis™
- 7279 InSync III Marquis™
Another recall was issued by Medtronics on April 16, 2004, for two other defibrillators. The recall included Micro JewelÒ II Model 7223Cx and GEMÒ DR Model 7271. Approximately 6,268 of these devices were manufactured. 1800 are thought to be still implanted in patients worldwide. One serious injury and four deaths have been related to defects in the Micro Jewel II devices.
On February 23, 2005, Medtronic also announced a recall of the Lifepak 500 automated external defibrillator. This device may fail to analyze the patient’s heart rhythm even when the electrodes are properly connected and the device appears to be working properly. This recall affects approximately 1924 Lifepack 500 devices. These defibrillators were manufactured prior to 1997.
The Lifepak 500 is used by first responders such as firefighters or police officers who arrive to assist at the scene of a cardiac incident. There have been approximately 54 incidents regarding this group of defibrillators, including eight (8) cases where it may have prevented patient resuscitation.
These recalls are CLASS I recalls by the FDA. This means there is a reasonable probability that continued use of the device will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
Davis & Feder P.A. is now handling claims for individuals with implanted Maximo, Marquis and Insync Medtronic Defibrillators and external Lifepak
500 defibrillators. Davis & Feder P.A. is experienced in medical device product liability cases and settlements. If you or a loved one has an implanted Medtronic defibrillator device,
contact us at
1-866-857-8500. An attorney is standing by to assist you with your claim.
