Philips Respironics C-PAP, BiPAP and Ventilator Recall
It’s estimated that 50 to 70 million Americans have sleep and breathing disorders. Many, like sleep apnea, are treatable with C-PAP or BiPAP machines. As of June 2021, Philips Respironics has issued a recall for a number of their assistive breathing machines, including ventilators.
According to the FDA, there is a problem with the devices’ polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) sound abatement foam. It’s used to reduce sound and vibration. The devices’ sound abatement foam can break down, causing toxic chemicals and black debris to enter the patient’s airway.
While no deaths have been reported yet, Philips acknowledges that inhaling these chemicals and debris can cause “headache, irritation, inflammation, respiratory issues, and possible toxic and carcinogenic effects.” You may develop serious health problems immediately, or over time.
If you use a Philips Respironics device and suffered exposure to chemicals and debris, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny right away. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Which devices have been recalled?
The FDA has posted a full list of the recalled devices. They include C-PAPs, BiPAPs and ventilators from the DreamStation, Trilogy, A-Series, C-Series, Dorma, REMstar and OmniLab lines.
What should I do if my device has been recalled?
If your device is on the list of recalled products, call your healthcare provider immediately. They will likely recommend that you discontinue use, and take one of the following actions:
- Use a similar device that was not included in the recall
- Use a similar device from another provider
- Use a bacterial filter for ventilators
- Begin long-term treatment for sleep apnea (weight loss, smoking cessation, surgery)
- Alternative treatments, such as mouth guards or positional therapy
Your medical provider may advise you to continue using the device until a new one can be procured—as long as the rewards outweigh the potential risk. If you depend on one of these devices for critical life-sustaining purposes, ask your medical provider about what you can do to mitigate further damage.
Once you’ve determined a medical course of action, it’s time to seek legal help. If your device’s sound abatement foam has broken down, and you inhaled toxic chemicals or debris as a result, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny right away.
The FDA also encourages you to report problems with this online form.
Let’s hold the manufacturers responsible
Patients depend on medical devices like C-PAPs, BiPAPs and ventilators to alleviate life-threatening conditions. When these critical devices end up jeopardizing your health and safety, you shouldn’t have to bear the associated medical costs and other damages.
It only takes a few minutes to determine whether you’re eligible to file a lawsuit. Our team will review your claim and let you know if we can help. If you qualify, we’ll work to ensure the manufacturer provides adequate restitution.
Call me today to discuss your case. I’ll Make Them Pay!®
