“The Deadly Stockert 3T Machine” – LivaNova machines that have allegedly caused dozens of patients to develop a mycobacterial infection

There are growing concerns surrounding the use of a particular type of heater-cooler system, Stockert 3T, manufactured by LivaNova, which are machines used during a patient’s surgery that have allegedly led to a spate of infections.

This was reportedly the case for Kenneth Piechowski, a Philadelphia man, when he had a surgery to replace a faulty aortic valve back in December 2014.

Victims

It’s currently estimated that 79 individuals have fallen victim to an infection where the machine in question was used during their surgery from the period of January 2010 to August 2016. Mr Piechowski claims that the use of the machine was the cause of his infection, which resulted in him suffering a stroke. He has started legal proceedings against the manufacturer, and there may be grounds for a potential group action claim against the manufacturers of the machine, if it transpires that the dozens of alleged victims are correct in their allegations.

Lawsuits

In June this year, two families filed lawsuits in the U.S. against LivaNova for the recklessness and negligence of the deadly Stockert 3T machine. In one of the personal injury claims, the claimant argues that the machine was a direct cause of his chronic illness and continual pain and suffering following his heart surgery, which allegedly caused him to be infected by a mycobacterial infection. Another lawsuit was made on behalf of a man who died following surgery involving the Stockert 3T, which also allegedly led him to develop a mycobacterial infection.

Although the stories are so far coming from the U.S., we are keeping a close eye on whether there are any UK victims as well. With settlements expected to be worth thousands or even millions of pounds, if anyone in the UK has been affected, our lawyers can get on the case for you.

What are heater-coolers?

The heater-cooler is a device that’s usually used during surgery to warm up or cool down patients as part of their care. It’s crucial for heart, lungs, oesophagus and other chest organ surgeries – as was the case for Mr Piechowski. The devices include tanks that provide water that is temperature-controlled to external heat exchangers or to warming blankets through the water circuits.

FDA’s invovlement

Recently, the U.S.’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported an issue with the use of the heater-coolers, saying that it may be the cause of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria infections. This has been supported by numerous reports, medical literature, and through their own ongoing investigation.

Reports that patients had been infected with the mycobacteria infection initiated the FDA’s investigation. They found that those in distinct U.S. locations were infected after undergoing surgery in relation to the heart, lungs, and chest areas.

Inevitable legal proceedings

As the infection can take months or years to develop, it could be hard to link the infection to the usage of the heater-coolers. However, LivaNova should anticipate legal proceedings by putting aside monies to defend inevitable cases, as it appears there are several coming their way.

If any cases arise here in the UK, our Group Action Lawyers will be happy to investigate.