Medtronic Attorneys, Williams Kherkher

Medtronic Sprint Fidelis Leads: Between a Rock and a Hard Place

Patients who have been implanted with the possibly faulty Medtronic Sprint Fidelis Leads are finding themselves with an incredible dilemma – whether it is better to leave the potentially dangerous leads in place, or undergo risky surgery to have them removed. The leads, which have been known to fracture, could cause defibrillators to not give shocks to patients who need them, or give unnecessary and powerful shocks at random times, both of which are life-threatening. Those who have survived these unnecessary shocks say they are incredibly painful.

The decision is not an easy one, but most doctors are recommending that patients with affected defibrillators leave the Sprint Fidelis leads in place if they have not yet fractured. The main reason for this is the risk involved with any surgery to remove the leads. However, leaving the leads in place exposes the patient to possible lead fractures, a fear which many say deeply affects them on a day to day basis. Patients often feel concerned that increased activity could cause the leads to fracture and are forced to cut back on activity levels. Younger patients are particularly affected due to activity levels which are generally higher than older patients.

The other option is having the leads surgically removed. Unfortunately, this option is hardly more attractive than leaving the leads in, due to the risks involved. Scar tissue may form around the leads, carrying a risk of bleeding or infection. Another factor is the high cost of the surgery, which insurance does not necessarily cover.

Several lawsuits have been filed against Medtronic, alleging that it manufactured and sold dangerous products which fractured easily without sufficient warning to the public. Not all of the lawsuits are being filed by those with fractured leads; some are being filed on behalf of those suffering from the risk of leads fracturing. These lawsuits seek the costs of medical monitoring and future medical expenses for the affected client.

If you have been affected by fractured Medtronic Sprint Fidelis leads, or if you have been implanted with a Medtronic defibrillator and are forced to live day-to-day in fear of a lead fracture, don’t suffer in silence. Contact a reliable Medtronic lawsuit attorney at Williams Kherkher for a free initial consultation today.