Medtronic Medical Device Overview

Medtronic Emergency Response Systems, Inc. of Redmond, Washington has marketed several medical devices over the years, and many of these products have helped the overall advancement of medical technology.

However, two of Medtronic's devices have come under intense scrutiny, leading to recalls. These devices are their external defibrillators and their insulin infusion sets. Each of these issues is detailed below, and if you've suffered an injury as a result of using either of these products, contact an experienced attorney immediately for a consultation.

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LIFEPAK 500 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)

These products, which are also known by some as pacemakers, serve the function of helping treat cardiac arrest. These devices were intended to deliver a shock to the heart in order to restore normal heart rhythm. These devices were generally used by first-response teams such as fire and rescue and EMT's.

On February 3, 2005, a recall was initiated for the following part numbers:

• 3005400-XXX
• D3005400-XXX
• U3005400-XXX

All of these devices were manufactured in 1997, and a total of 1,924 devices were affected, according to the FDA. The reason for the recall was that the AED’s showed a tendency to display a "Connect Electrodes" message and then failed to defibrillate the patient, even when the electrodes were connected properly.

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MiniMed Paradigm Quick-set Infusion Sets

On March 2, 2004, Medtronic’s infusion sets detailed above were recalled, affecting the following model numbers:

• MMT-359S6
• MMT-359S9
• MMT-359L6
• MMT-359L9

The reason for this recall was that these devices generated complaints for several failures, including:

• Bent Cannulas
• Occlusions within the tubing
• Leaking at the insertion site
• Accidental dislodging of the infusion set while removing the device

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Whistleblower Controversy and Injuries

One of the means by which the problems above with the insulin device came to light was because of a whistleblower publicizing these problems.  Several allegations were made, including a cover-up by the company and improper relationships between the government’s attorneys and the defendant’s counsel. 

This publicizing of problems detailed the injuries that can occur as a result of use of this device, including diabetics not receiving the proper amount of insulin, insufficient medication and over-medicating.  The results of improperly-administered insulin can be catastrophic in nature.

If you have suffered as a result of using either of the devices listed above, you need to contact a trial attorney immediately to begin the process of protecting and enforcing your rights.

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