Guidant Corp. voluntarily recalled nearly 50,000 of its cardiac defibrillators worldwide because of potential malfunctions in the devices.

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On June 17, 2005, Guidant Corporation recalled its cardiac defibrillators implanted in 50,000 patients around the world due to potentially fatal malfunctions of the devices. There are approximately 38,000 patients in the United States with Guidant brand defibrillators, which reports indicate have failed 45 times and are responsible for at least two deaths since May 30th. The company recalled the following models of cardiac defibrillators:

• Prizm 2 DR
• Contak Renewal and Contak Renewal 2
• Ventak Prizm AVT
• Vitality AVT
• Renewal 3 AVT and Renewal 4 AVT ICDs

Cardiac defibrillators are small devices implanted into the body to regulate the heartbeat in people with risk of heart problems. Small computers detect an irregular heartbeat and shock the heart into the proper rhythm, but critical wiring errors in Guidant defibrillators may cause a short circuit which can overload their delicate wiring. Prizm AVT, Vitality AVT and Renewal AVT can be serviced at a doctor's office to reduce this risk, but Prizm 2 DR and Contak Renewal must be replaced in order to eliminate potential hazards. Those at the greatest risk should immediately consult their doctors and continue to have checkups every three months to ensure that the devices are still working properly.

The Food and Drug Administration released a statement stating that they did not require Guidant to recall its products, but that they nevertheless supported the decision to address such serious allegations. The fact that this issue was finally addressed is of small comfort to the 50,000 people who continue to live in constant fear that their life-saving medical equipment may fail them when they need it the most.

Guidant Corp knew that there were problems in its Prizm 2 DR model and continued to market it...

Guidant Corp knew that there were problems in its Prizm 2 DR model and continued to market it, but demanded a total redesign of the unit. The company knew the model had failed a small number of times before 2002, but claimed that future revisions would make it safer. Doctors then discovered that Contak Renewal defibrillators built before August 26th, 2004 demonstrated a large risk of shorting out and failing to function properly. Only when presented with two such problems did Guidant act in the best interest of the public and offer to recall and service their defective products. If you or

The Law Firms of Steigerwalt & Associates and Provost * Umphrey have joined forces to help victims of serious injury and death as a result of defective and recalled Guidant defibrillators and pacemakers throughout the country. Our firms have spent many years successfully helping injured people and their families with mass tort and defective product cases around the U.S. We are dedicated to pursuing justice for our clients and fighting for the rights of the injured. Together our law firms can help you - regardless of where you live.