Legal Experts Reveal Concerns Regarding Potential Risks Of Failure

Specialist product liability lawyers have revealed their concerns after medical device manufacturer DePuy Synthes launched a recall of specific batches of its Vertical Expandable Prosthetic Titanium Rib (VEPTR) caudal rib supports.

According to the manufacturer, the decision to recall the devices has come after it was found that the last hole on certain VEPTR caudal rib supports may be partially formed – which could be in some cases lead to a mechanical failure.

While the manufacturer added that it is unaware of confirmed complaints related to the issue, they have identified eight complaints reported in relation to extension bar breakage occurring when the device is lengthed to its terminal ends.

The company has stressed the recall relates the products used for rib-to-rib constructs and not other VEPTR devices such as lumbar extentions or titanium rib components.

Reacting to the issue, specialist product liability lawyers at Irwin Mitchell have urged that steps are taken to identify how the potential fault emerged.

Our experienced medical negligence claims team will provide you with free initial advice on your compensation claim if you have suffered as the result of a defective or faulty medical product or medicines. View our Defective Medical Products Drugs Or Medicines Claims page for more information.

Expert Opinion

“It is welcome to see the manufacturer in this case taking steps to ensure that patients and medical professionals are aware of potential issues with this device, but it is clear that many questions remain regarding how this has come to light. Medical devices are precision products aimed at improving the health of patients. The risk of mechanical failures within the short term is unacceptable. <br/> <br/>“We would urge DePuy Synthes to work quickly and thoroughly to determine how and why this potential fault emerged and what can ultimately be done to prevent the same problems from arising in the future. <br/> <br/>“Our work means we see numerous cases in which people have suffered serious injury or long-term health problems as a result of faulty medical devices, so the impact of this cannot be underestimated. <br/> <br/>“Patients place great faith in the fact that devices they are fitted with are safe to use, so reports of this nature always raise concerns. Regulators and manufacturers must always work to provide reassurances that safety is their top priority.” Kevin Timms - Solicitor