Multiple news outlets are reporting that Allergan has issued a voluntary recall of its Biocell textured breast implants and tissue expanders after research found a link between the products and a rare type of lymphoma.
In a press release issued by the company, it stated that ‘Allergan is taking this action as a precaution followingnotification of recently updated global safety information concerning the uncommon incidence of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).’
Earlier this year, the FDA did not find a reason to take the Biocell implants off the market, though new numbers indicate a frightening link between the implants and BIA-ALCL. FDA researchers estimate that about 80 percent of confirmed BIA-ALCL cases across the world stemmed from Allergen Biocell implants. That is about 456 of 570 cases resulting from this product.
It is important to note that about 10 million women in the world have implants, and only about five percent have this model. However, that is enough to present a serious and unnecessary risk of life-threatening cancer and lead to a recall. This recall, however, comes after frightening cancer diagnoses for many women who trusted the implants. The FDA is not recommending that women who experience no problems have the implants removed, though, not surprisingly, many women might as a precautionary step.
Individuals Who Have Received Defective Medical Devices are Often Entitled to Significant Compensation
The unfortunate reality is that defective medical devices reach the market in spite of significant oversight by government regulators. Each year, thousands of people are injured by devices inside of their bodies that never should be on the market had medical device manufacturers taken the time to make sure that their devices are safe. Medical devices can cause serious and life-threatening complications due to:
- Defective design
- Inadequate testing
- Defective assembly
- Using inappropriate materials
- Failing to warn of risks and side effects
When a medical device leads to severe medical problems such as cancer, victims can incur unnecessary losses, including:
- Expenses for cancer treatment
- Lost earnings for missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
Even in cases where people who have received the device are not directly affected by its defect (for example, individuals with the breast implant in question who do not develop lymphoma), victims still suffer significant losses. For example, having the device removed as a result of safety concerns itself is a loss, as is the time missed from work as a result of the removal surgery, and the pain and suffering experienced by victims.
If You Have Had Adverse Results after Receiving a Medical Device, Call Our Florida Product Liability Lawyers Today
If you have been injured due to Allergen Biocell breast implants, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your losses. To schedule a free case evaluation with a product liability attorney in Florida, call GED Lawyers, LLP , today at 561-571-7958 or contact us online.
