What are defibrillators?
Defibrillators are small computer devices used to treat heart rate and heart rhythm abnormalities in patients who suffer from heart diseases. The devices are designed to be surgically implanted in the chest area and monitor cardiac function. Defibrillators can detect a heartbeat that is either too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia), and delivers an electrical impulse or a series of shocks to various parts of the heart to restart normal function.
Other Heart Device Litigation FAQs
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Q:
How do I know if I have one of these devices?
A: Guidant designs and manufactures three types of cardiac rhythm devices: pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and cardiac resynchronization … More -
Q:
What should I do if I have one of these devices?
A: If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. Your physician will consider your medical history and your dependency on your pacemaker to determine … More -
Q:
What is the appropriate follow-up period for my pacemaker?
A: Your patient handbook recommends regular device check-ups. Your physician may advise you that additional follow-up visits might be necessary to more closely monitor … More -
Q:
If I have one of these devices, what is the likelihood that my device will fail?
A: Guidant's implantable devices continue to demonstrate extremely high performance and reliability. There is no way to predict if any device within this subset of … More -
Q:
What defibrillator models are being recalled?
A: The Guidant defibrillators affected by this recall are: • PRIZM 2 DR, Model 1861, manufactured on or before April 16, 2002 • CONTAK RENEWAL, Model … More -
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What should patients do if they are uncertain about their own Guidant defibrillator? Are there warning signs of defectiveness?
A: All patients who are currently implanted with a Guidant defibrillator are urged to seek immediate medical advice from their physicians to determine if they have an … More -
Q:
Can I file a lawsuit for having a faulty defibrillator?
A: Yes. Initially, Guidant indicated they would not cover the recall defibrillator replacements of more than five years old since they are off-warranty, but on the heels … More -
Q:
How do I know if I have a recalled Medtronic heart device?
A: This situation is limited to a group of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-Ds) incorporating … More -
Q:
What should I do if I think I have an ICD or CRT-D device that could be affected?
A: Please call your physician who follows the performance of your device to discuss the situation and their recommendations for your specific situation. Or, call the … More -
Q:
What if I don't know my device model?
A: Please speak with your physician who follows the performance of your device. Or, call the Medtronic patient toll-free line at 1-800-551-5544 (M-F, 7 a.m. - 6 … More
