The 3M Bair Hugger is a device intended to help patients during surgery. Unfortunately, in some cases it may cause more harm than good.
The 3M Bair Hugger Normothermia System is a device intended to monitor, prevent, and treat unintended hypothermia in patients undergoing surgery. However, many patients are now part of individual lawsuits and class-action lawsuits that allege the device caused MRSA, sepsis, and other serious infections. These lawsuits allege that Arizant Healthcare, a subsidiary of 3M, knew about the defects but did nothing to correct or warn about them. Patients who have become injured due to the use of the blanket should speak to a Boca Raton product liability lawyer who can help with their case.
Complications with the Warming Blanket
The 3M Bair Hugger is used in surgical procedures throughout the country. Unfortunately, the lawsuits already filed allege that the heat generated by the blanket redirects air circulation during surgical procedures. That redirection can cause contaminants on the operating room floor, such as bacteria, to become airborne during an operation. When the bacteria enters a wound or surgical site, it causes significant complications for a patient. The most common of these are infection of the joints, which requires additional treatment.
The treatment associated with complications of the 3M Bair Hugger are many. Patients have had to undergo multiple surgeries to correct it, have artificial joints in the hips and knees removed and replaced, and undergo physical therapy. The 3M Bair Hugger has also caused prolonged hospital stays, intravenous antibiotic treatment, and in some cases, even amputation of a limb.
The device was initially recalled in 2018, but the recall status was terminated in 2020. Any patient who suffered injury after the use of the Bair Hugger blanket should speak to a product liability lawyer who can help them claim damages.
Signs of a Joint Infection
Infections of the joints are the most common problem caused by the 3M Bair Hugger blanket. These infections are serious and can result in a patient undergoing dozens of surgeries to correct the problem. The most common signs of a joint infection are as follows:
- Redness and a warm feeling around the affected area
- Swelling
- Drainage from the wound
- Fatigue
- Increased stiffness or pain in a joint that previously functioned well
- Chills, fevers, and night sweats
These infections have the potential to become very serious. It is important to recognize the signs so patients can receive the proper medical treatment they need right away.
What Can be Recovered in a Lawsuit?
When a Bair Hugger blanket has caused injuries, patients who suffered harm can recover:
- Medical expenses
- Disability
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
Tragically, infections and other injuries are sometimes so severe a patient does not survive them. In these cases, surviving family members can also claim damages for wrongful death.
Let Our Florida Product Liability Lawyers Review Your Case
If you or someone you love has been hurt by the 3M Bair Hugger, let our skilled Boca Raton product liability lawyers review your case today. At Ged Lawyers, LLP, we know the damages that are available when you have suffered harm due to a manufacturer’s negligence, and we will help you recover what you deserve. Call us at (561) 995-1966 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
