Louisiana Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit (2024 Update)

Navigating the Louisiana Impella heart pump lawsuit landscape can be overwhelming. Our article equips you with knowledge crucial for understanding the cases’ backgrounds and the legal channels available to those seeking compensation.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by providing expert legal representation and guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring that your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

S&C is committed to assisting you with your Impella heart pump lawsuit by:

• Providing expert legal advice tailored to the specifics of your case
• Navigating the complexities of medical device litigation on your behalf
• Ensuring that your rights are upheld and that you pursue the maximum compensation due

Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit

The Impella heart pump, known for its role in supporting complex cardiovascular procedures, has become the subject of legal scrutiny due to safety concerns. Despite its contributions to treating conditions such as acute heart failure and cardiogenic shock, the device has been linked to a number of serious complications, sparking a wave of litigation.

While the adaptability of the Impella heart pumps has been crucial for patients in need of additional support during procedures, the emergence of risks associated with its use has led to lawsuits. These legal actions focus less on the product’s intended benefits and more on the alleged failure to adequately inform users of its potential dangers.

The Impella provided essential support to those in critical condition, but the subsequent legal challenges reflect a growing concern over patient safety. The lawsuits aim to address the balance between the device’s benefits and the risks that have come to light, questioning whether adequate warnings were provided to patients and healthcare providers.

What Is an Impella Heart Pump?

An Impella heart pump is a mechanical device designed to provide temporary circulatory support for patients with severe heart conditions. It is a sophisticated piece of medical engineering that functions by assisting the heart in pumping blood, thereby enabling it to rest and recover, especially during or after cardiac procedures.

According to a PubMed 2023 study, this device is particularly crucial for patients suffering from conditions such as severe left ventricular dysfunction, a common issue in those with coronary artery disease or those experiencing cardiogenic shock following a heart attack [1].

The FDA, a key protector of public health, issued its most severe alert, sternly warning about the risk of death or serious injury associated with the Impella heart pumps. In response, Abiomed, the maker of the Impella, urged for enhanced caution.

They recommended precise pump catheter positioning and the use of imaging during its manipulation, especially in high-risk scenarios.

Reasons Behind The Recall

According to the FDA, the agency has issued a Class I recall for the Impella heart pumps, indicating a situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of these products will cause serious adverse health consequences or death [2].

This declaration came in response to the reports of patients who suffered the ultimate price. When recalls are issued, manufacturers such as Abiomed must respond promptly under FDA guidance, a duty that bears the burden of public trust.

Specific recalls for various models of defective medical devices have also been issued, addressing missteps in labeling that could lead to heart-wrenching outcomes like left ventricle perforation.

These actions reflect a more vigilant approach by the FDA, as evidenced by a warning letter regarding the Impella Connect system and its premarket approval status.

Side Effects of Impella Heart Pump

The side effects of the Impella Heart Pump can range from mild to severe, including but not limited to: 

• Blood clots
• Bleeding
• Hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells)
• Limb ischemia (lack of blood flow to limbs)
• Stroke
• In extreme cases, death

These complications can arise during the insertion of the device, while it is operating, or after it is removed. Understanding these potential risks is crucial for patients and medical professionals when considering the use of this device in cardiovascular procedures.

In certain instances, families have to face the devastating loss of a loved one due to complications. Despite these significant safety concerns, pharmaceutical and medical device companies continue to generate substantial profits annually.

Stroke is one of the most common and serious complications of many MCSs, and Impella is no exception – Shunsuke Saito (M.D., PhD), Cardiovascular Surgeon at the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Osaka University

How Do You Qualify for an Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit?

To qualify for an Impella Heart Pump lawsuit, you must be able to demonstrate that you or a loved one was implanted with an Impella device and suffered adverse effects as a consequence.

It’s essential to show that these complications arose due to the device’s malfunction, design defects, or inadequate warnings provided by the manufacturer.

Additionally, the timing of the lawsuit must fall within the statute of limitations, which varies by state. Having substantial evidence such as medical records, expert testimonies, and recall notices will further strengthen your case.

The Status Of The Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit Litigation in Louisiana

The status of the Impella heart pump lawsuit litigation in Louisiana is subject to ongoing developments within the legal system.

As of now, cases related to Impella heart pump complications are being actively litigated, with plaintiffs seeking compensation for injuries allegedly caused by the device. These lawsuits involve claims of device defects, failure to warn about potential risks, and other legal issues.

Our legal team in Louisiana is closely monitoring the progress of these lawsuits and is committed to providing effective representation for individuals impacted by Impella heart pump complications.

We strive to stay abreast of any updates or changes in the litigation process to ensure our clients receive the best possible legal assistance.

Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Louisiana

The pursuit of compensation often drives the complex legal journey of an Impella Heart Pump lawsuit.

It’s a pursuit for justice that can manifest in various forms, including:

• covering the tangible toll of hospital bills, surgeries, and necessary future medical care
• reclaiming lost wages and benefits
• acknowledging the intangible torment of physical pain and emotional distress

The financial compensation sought by the chief executive officer, under the scrutiny of the Securities and Exchange Commission, is not just about recouping costs but also about seeking justice and accountability.

Wrongful death damages come into play, encompassing funeral expenses and the profound loss of income for those who depended on the deceased.

These lawsuits cast a wide net, capturing a spectrum of compensatory damages categorized into economic, non-economic, and wrongful death damages. It’s a testament to the varied and profound impact that a defective medical device can have on lives.

Filing an Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit in Louisiana

From the neighborhoods of Louisiana to its urban centers, residents affected by medical device issues, such as those involving the Impella Heart Pump, are pursuing legal action.

Wrongful death and product liability cases require plaintiffs to back their claims with precise details. It’s not just about stating that there was a defect; it’s about laying bare how this fault, be it a malfunctioning purge sidearm, a fundamental design flaw, or failure to warn of defects, led to a patient’s tragic demise.

Law firms, with their keen eyes and sharp minds, evaluate a range of complications associated with the Impella Heart Pump when determining a case’s eligibility for product liability litigation. These complications include blood flow death, heart-wall tears, anemia, blood clots, and vascular damage.

By evaluating these complications, a law firm can build a strong case for litigation, including potential class action lawsuit scenarios involving product liability claims under product liability laws.

Types of Evidence To Present

In building a compelling Impella Heart Pump lawsuit, the evidence plays a pivotal role. Plaintiffs may present a variety of evidence types to substantiate their claims:

• Medical Records: Comprehensive documentation of surgeries, treatments, and communications with healthcare professionals.
• Expert Testimony: Insights from medical experts who can speak to the Impella’s functionality and potential defects.
• Device Recalls and Warnings: Official recall notices and FDA warnings that highlight known issues with the heart pump.
• Personal Testimony: The plaintiff’s account of the adverse effects experienced, providing a personal narrative of the injury.
• Witness Statements: Accounts from family members or others who can corroborate the plaintiff’s experience and impact on quality of life.
• Financial Records: Evidence of economic losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses incurred as a result of the injury.
• Photographs and Videos: Visual evidence that can demonstrate the serious injuries, as well as the device itself, if applicable.

These pieces of evidence collectively help to paint a detailed picture of the harm caused by the Impella heart pump, bolstering the plaintiff’s position in the lawsuit.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for the Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit In Louisiana?

The statute of limitations for the Impella Heart Pump lawsuit in Louisiana is typically one year from the date of injury or discovery of the injury. However, this period may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case, such as the nature of the claim or any applicable exceptions.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified attorney to determine the precise deadline for filing a lawsuit. Time is of the essence in these cases, so seeking legal advice promptly is crucial to protect your rights and ensure your claim is filed within the legal time limits.

Related Article: Arkansas Impella Heart Pump Lawsuit

See all related medical device lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get Your Free Consultation From Louisiana Our Lawyers

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP we stand by your side in these trying times. If you or a family member has endured hardships stemming from the Impella heart pump, we encourage you to contact us.

Our seasoned legal professionals specialize in such matters and will navigate you through each step of the legal process. We’re committed to elucidating your legal rights and determining your qualification for a lawsuit involving Impella heart pump complications.

We offer free initial consultations, and our fee structure is contingent upon securing a victory in your case. Contact us for a comprehensive review of your situation.

Reference:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31279538/#full-view-affiliation-1
2. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/medical-device-recalls/abiomed-recalls-instructions-use-impella-left-sided-blood-pumps-due-perforation-risks