The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and manufacturer GE Healthcare recalled two defective anesthesia systems this month after health professionals and hospitals across the country reported that the medical devices had a tendency to turn off suddenly, posing a major threat to patients under anesthesia for procedures and operations. The Class 1 recall of the defective is the highest priority recall, in which the device could cause patients serious harm or death.

Anesthesia devices are an extremely important aspect of almost every majority surgery or operation in the United States. Many of these devices keep the unconscious patient monitored, correctly under anesthesia, and unaware of the ongoing procedure. However, a defective anesthesia device can lead to dire issues.

A patient who receives too much of an anesthesia drug could stop breathing and their brain could be deprived of oxygen, causing serious brain injury, lifelong disability, paralysis, coma, and death. A patient who does not receive enough of an anesthesia drug could feel pain during the operation or even wake up and become conscious. Being aware during surgery can lead to serious problems after the surgery, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, flashbacks, panic disorders, insomnia, and medical phobias.

If you or a loved one have suffered from an anesthesia error due to a defective medical device in Virginia, a medical device manufacturer or your hospital may be responsible for your damages or losses. To learn more about your potential defective medical device lawsuit, call an experienced defective medical device attorney today.