MegaDyne Electrode Attorneys
MegaDyne electrodes were designed to protect patients during surgery but have unfortunately been linked to severe burns and other complications, leading to multiple lawsuits. On May 10, 2024, parent company Ethicon issued a voluntary recall for certain MegaDyna electrode products reported to malfunction during surgeries. You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one have suffered injuries due to a defective MegaDyne electrode.
MegaDyne has recalled products that are used in surgical procedures to prevent electrical burns. Despite their design to protect patients, some have reported unexpected complications, including severe burns. These injuries have led to growing concerns about the safety of MegaDyne electrodes, raising questions about their effectiveness in surgery. Patients affected by these burns have suffered both physically and emotionally, leading many to pursue legal action. As awareness grows, lawsuits are being filed against the manufacturers of MegaDyne electrodes for the harm caused.
Contact Farah & Farah today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.
What Is Electrosurgery?
Electrosurgery is a medical technique that uses high-frequency electrical currents to cut tissue, coagulate, or destroy abnormal tissue during surgical procedures. It is widely used in various fields, including general surgery, dermatology, gynecology, urology, and more, due to its ability to make precise cuts while minimizing blood loss.
How Does Electrosurgery Work?
An active electrode delivers the current to the tissue, generating heat for precise cutting or coagulation. In monopolar mode, the current passes through the body to a return electrode (grounding pad), while in bipolar mode, both electrodes are in the same tool. This technique minimizes blood loss, enhances precision, and speeds up healing, making it versatile for various surgical applications.
The MegaDyne Electrode is a monopolar electrosurgery tool.What Is the MegaDyne Electrode?
The MegaDyne electrode is the active part of an electrosurgical circuit. It is the surgical tool used by the surgeon to deliver high-frequency electrical current to the patient’s tissue, causing localized heating. It allows the surgeon to perform tasks such as making incisions, controlling bleeding, or removing tissue.
What Is the MegaDyne Patient Return Electrode?
MegaDyne patient return electrodes are medical devices used during electrosurgical procedures to channel electrical currents safely away from the human body. During an electrosurgery, MegaDyne electrode pads are affixed to the patient’s skin before the procedure begins. While the surgeon uses an electrosurgical tool to heat, cut tissue, or stop bleeding, the electrode pad helps absorb and return electrical currents, thereby protecting the patient from electrical burns or other injuries.
The patient return electrode is the component of the MegaDyne Electrode that has been facing recall for certain model numbers.
Who Manufactures the MegaDyne Electrode?
Megadyne electrodes are part of a broader line of electrosurgical products, typically manufactured by the company Megadyne Medical Products, which is now part of Ethicon (a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson). Founded in 1985, the company was acquired by Ethicon in 2017.
MegaDyne Electrodes Linked to Severe Burns
The most common injuries that have been reported from MegaDyne Electrodes are second and third-degree burns and scarring. These burns may happen when the electrodes malfunction, leading to overheating that damages the skin and surrounding tissues during surgery. In some cases, these burns have led to additional medical complications, including infection, nerve damage, and prolonged recovery times. Those who have been injured may require further surgical interventions and suffer long-term physical and emotional trauma as a result.
What Is a Second-Degree Burn?
A second-degree burn, also known as a partial-thickness burn, affects both the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and the second layer beneath it (dermis). It is more severe than a first-degree burn and can cause more noticeable and painful damage.
Symptoms of a Second-Degree Burn
Common characteristics of second-degree burns include:
- Red skin
- Blotchy skin
- Blisters
- Swelling
- Shiny appearance
- Wet appearance
- Severe pain
Treatment For Second-Degree Burns
Second-degree burns typically take two to three weeks to heal, depending on the severity and size of the burn. More minor burns may be treated with a cool compress and pain relievers but more severe second-degree burns may require treatment like skin grafts.
What Is a Third-Degree Burn?
A third-degree burn, also known as a full-thickness burn, is the most severe type of burn and affects all layers of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and potentially deeper tissues like muscles, fat, and bones. Unlike first- and second-degree burns, third-degree burns destroy both the outer and inner skin layers, causing extensive damage to the affected area.
Symptoms of a Third-Degree Burn
The characteristics of a third-degree burn can include:
- White, black, brown, or charred skin
- Lack of pain in the affected area
- Pain in the surrounding area
- Swelling
- Significant tissue destruction
- Waxy or stiff skin
Treatment for Third-Degree Burns
Third-degree burns require immediate medical attention due to the severity of the injury and risk of complications such as infection, dehydration, and shock. These burns do not heal on their own and often require specialized care such as surgery (often skin grafts), antibiotics, an IV, and pain management. Third-degree burns are typically treated in a hospital burn unit.
Impacts of Burn Injuries
Severe burns can have profound and long-lasting effects on a person’s physical, emotional, and social well-being. Beyond the immediate medical issues, severe burns often lead to a wide range of physical complications, such as scarring, nerve damage, and reduced mobility, which can require extensive rehabilitation. Emotionally, survivors may struggle with trauma, including depression, anxiety, or PTSD, while adjusting to changes in their appearance and daily functioning. These challenges can impact social relationships, lead to isolation, and create significant lifestyle changes, from the need for ongoing medical care to adapting to new career limitations or financial strain.
MegaDyne Electrode Recalls
MegaDyne electrodes were recalled due to reports of malfunction during use, resulting in significant injuries, including severe burns. The recall occurred after several complaints highlighted that certain electrodes were not functioning as intended, posing severe health risks to patients. On March 1, 2024, the FDA posted an announcement reminding healthcare facilities not to use MegaDyne products for patients under 12. The recall aims to prevent further injuries and safeguard patients from defective devices. However, recalls do not protect those already impacted. As a result, lawsuits have emerged, aiming to hold the manufacturers accountable for the faulty products.
Which MegaDyne Electrodes Are Affected by the Recall?
Not all MegaDyne electrodes are part of the recall, but specific models have been identified as requiring removal from use. The recall primarily focuses on patient return electrodes linked to unexpected overheating or failure to redirect electrical currents properly. Included in the recalls are the following products:
- MegaDyne Mega 2000 Patient Return Electrode 0800
- MegaDyne Mega Soft Reusable Patient Return Electrode 0830
- MegaDyne Mega Soft Dual Reusable Patient Return Electrode 0835
- MegaDyne Mega Soft Pediatric Patient Return Electrode 0840
- MegaDyne Mega Soft Universal Patient Return Electrode 0845
- MegaDyne Mega Soft Universal Dual Patient Return Electrode 0846
- MegaDyne Mega Soft Universal Plus Dual Patient Return Electrode 0848
Who Initiated the Recall?
After 99 reports surfaced of severe burns linked to using specific MegaDyne electrodes, Ethicon initiated recalls to remove the affected products from circulation. In public announcements, the company acknowledged the safety concerns and encouraged healthcare facilities to stop using the defective models in June and December 2023. Despite these efforts, the recalls came after several patients had already suffered serious injuries, prompting numerous lawsuits. Ethicon and Johnson & Johnson continue to face legal action as they address the fallout from these product failures.
What Allegations Are MegaDyne and Ethicon Facing?
Allegations against MegaDyne and its parent company, Ethicon, include negligence claims in the design and manufacturing of their electrodes. Plaintiffs argue that the companies failed to properly test their products or issue timely warnings once defects were discovered. Other allegations focus on the companies’ failure to recall the defective electrodes promptly, which may have contributed to further injuries. These accusations are central to the lawsuits, as injured patients seek justice and compensation.
MegaDyne Electrode Lawsuits
Individuals injured due to a faulty MegaDyne electrode can file lawsuits against the manufacturer, typically under product liability claims. These lawsuits aim to hold the company accountable for the injuries caused by their defective product and seek compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. In many cases, these lawsuits involve claims that the manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings about the risks or did not properly address known defects in the product.
How To File a MegaDyne Electrode Lawsuit
Filing a lawsuit related to a MegaDyne electrode injury involves navigating complex legal processes. Patients or families affected by these injuries may be entitled to compensation, but it’s essential to understand the steps involved. Typically, the process starts by proving that the injury was caused by a malfunction or defect in the electrode and demonstrating the damages suffered. Hiring an experienced attorney to handle the case is crucial for success. The legal team can gather evidence, negotiate with manufacturers, and help victims pursue the maximum compensation.
How Do I Know If I Can File a MegaDyne Lawsuit?
If you meet the following criteria, contact Farah & Farah today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
- You have had an electrosurgery procedure between March 11, 2021, and July 31, 2024
- Your electrosurgical procedure involved one of the recalled MegaDyne or Ethicon devices
- You experienced scond or third-degree burns caused directly by the electrode device
Potential Compensation in MegaDyne Electrode Lawsuits
If you suffered from MegaDyne electrode injuries, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. This may encompass reimbursement for medical expenses associated with your injury, compensation for lost wages due to your inability to work during recovery, as well as compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the injury. In some cases, courts may also award punitive damages to punish the manufacturer for negligence and deter future misconduct. The total amount of compensation will depend on the severity of the injury and the strength of the legal case.
Should I File an Individual Case or Under a Multi-District Litigation?
For those who have experienced MegaDyne electrode injuries, you may face the decision of filing your case individually or as part of a Multi-District Litigation (MDL). While an individual case allows for a more personalized approach, participating in an MDL may lead to quicker resolutions and settlement opportunities. However, consulting with an experienced attorney is important to determine the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.
What Is an MDL?
An MDL is a legal process consolidating multiple individual lawsuits with similar claims into a single proceeding. MDLs are sometimes formed when the same product or company has injured many people, and the victims have filed a lawsuit. Although each case remains separate, they are grouped together for pretrial activities like evidence collection and witness testimony. This process can help streamline litigation, reduce court costs, and potentially lead to larger, coordinated settlements for plaintiffs.
How Does a MegaDyne MDL Affect My Claim?
If multiple lawsuits are filed against MegaDyne, the courts may consolidate them into a single MDL to simplify the legal proceedings. When multiple cases are managed concurrently, all evidence, findings, and expert testimonies are shared among them. This collective approach can result in larger settlements rather than pursuing individual trials. However, it’s important to note that each claimant within the MDL may receive varying compensation based on the severity of their injuries. It’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand how an MDL could impact your claim.
How Farah & Farah MegaDyne Electrode Attorneys Can Help You
The attorneys at Farah & Farah are well-versed in handling medical device lawsuits. Our legal team has the expertise to navigate complex cases and hold manufacturers accountable for injuries caused by faulty products. From gathering discoveries to negotiating with manufacturers, Farah & Farah MegaDyne lawyers are committed to pursuing justice for each client and securing the maximum compensation possible.
Farah & Farah Will Fight To Hold Companies Accountable
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective MegaDyne electrode, contact Farah & Farah for a free consultation. Our MegaDyne attorneys can help determine whether you qualify to open a case against the companies responsible for your injuries and guide you through the legal process. Contact us today to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
We’re here to help. Reach out to Farah & Farah today
You can and should pursue justice through a defective medical device lawsuit. At Farah & Farah, we help you recover the maximum possible recovery or verdict from the people who caused your injury – so you can focus on recovering from what the defective medical device did to you without financial hardship.
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