Implantable Ventricular Assist Device Lawsuit

The IVAD or Implantable Ventricular Assist Device manufactured by Thoratec® Corporation has been recalled because the current Instructions for Use state that IVADs may be implanted or placed in the external position. If the IVAD is placed in the external position, air leaks may develop in the pneumatic driveline. These air leaks are a result of sharp bending of the driveline at the connection to the pump. This could result in not enough blood flow to and from the heart.

Class 1 recalls are the most serious type of recall and involve situations in which there is a reasonable probability that use of the product will cause serious injury or death.

If you or a loved one have been adversely affected by the Implantable Ventricular Assist Device recall, you should contact us immediately. You may be entitled to compensation and we can help.

What is the Implantable Ventricular Assist Device?

An implantable ventricular assist device is a mechanical pump that helps a person’s heart that is too weak to pump blood through the body. The IVAD is designed to provide sufficient blood flow to the damaged or diseased heart. It is sometimes referred to as a “bridge to transplant” since it can help a patient survive until a heart transplant can be performed. This device is air-driven (pneumatic).

What is the problem?

The current Instructions for Use state that IVADs may be implanted or placed in the external position. If the IVAD is placed in the external position, air leaks may develop in the pneumatic driveline. These air leaks are a result of sharp bending of the driveline at the connection to the pump. This could result in not enough blood flow to and from the heart.

Additional Information:

• FDA Recall – Thoratec Corporation Implantable Ventricular Assist Devices (IVAD)

Do I have a IVAD Recall Lawsuit?

The Medical Device and Product Liability Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus exclusively on the representation of plaintiffs in medical device recall lawsuits. We are currently investigating the possibility of handling individual Implantable Ventricular Assist Device (IVAD) litigation nationwide and currently accepting new Thoratec IVAD recall claims.

If you or a loved one have been adversely affected by the Implantable Ventricular Assist Device recall, you should contact us immediately. You may be entitled to compensation and we can help.