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The da Vinci surgical system is a robot that utilizes some of the most advanced technology currently available in the medical profession. Many doctors believe that the device will revolutionize the way that surgery is performed. The device uses a minimal number of incisions, increases the doctor’s vision, precision, and control. It is estimated that more than 400,000 surgeries in over 1,300 hospitals were performed using the da Vinci surgical device last year alone. While the da Vinci robot has provided many an alternative to much more invasive surgery, it has also caused a number of serious problems. Patients have reported tears and burns to blood vessels, intestines, and other internal organs. In some cases the patients have reported excessive bleeding or even severe nerve damage. In the most serious cases, death has resulted from problems with the da Vinci surgical robot. Our Boston area attorneys understand that injuries resulting from the da Vinci device can cause not only pain, but can cause the patient to miss work and create a financial burden on the patient’s family as the patient struggles to recover.
Not long after the da Vinci robot came to be widely used in hospitals throughout the country, the FDA launched an investigation into the harmful side effects caused by the device. Following the investigation, the FDA issued the company that produces the da Vinci robot a warning letter. The letter from the FDA included a critique of the company’s safety notification system. The FDA’s investigation uncovered evidence that the company failed to notify hospitals of crucial device corrections, many of which led to serious injuries in patients. Following the warning, a study was released concerning the da Vinci system and its effects on those receiving hysterectomies. Those patients that had surgery using the da Vinci machine were more likely to need pain medicine post surgery, and more likely to experience certain complications. These complications include severe pain, bleeding, injuries to the tissues, infection, and internal scarring.
Our Massachusetts attorneys understand that complaints about the da Vinci surgical system have increased dramatically recently, with more and more patients experiencing severe injury. In the past year alone, complaints about the da Vinci machine have more than doubled, causing increased concern over the safety of the device. The FDA eventually issued at Class 2 recall of the device, but instead of replacing devices entirely or removing them from hospitals, the company that owns da Vinci plans on replacing a certain part of the machine that has been blamed for a majority of the injuries.
If you believe that you were injured during a surgery using the da Vinci robotic device, it is important to contact an experienced attorney that can help you determine whether or not you have a case. Our Boston area attorneys have over 40 years of personal injury experience. At Altman & Altman, we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – including nights and weekends. To schedule a Free Initial Consultation with one of our dedicated Greater Boston Medical Malpractice Attorneys, call us at 617.492.3000 or contact us online. All Consultations are completely confidential.