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Philips issued a recall notification for certain CPAP and BiPAP machines because of potential health risks. The FDA published a Safety Communication on June 30, 2021, alerting the public and health care providers to the recall. The defective devices could cause severe injuries and life-threatening conditions because of a problem with the sound abatement foam used in the device.
CPAP machines are used to treat sleep apnea. The machines force air into a person’s upper airway to keep it open during sleep. The continuous stream of air prevents oxygen deprivation. Our Virginia personal injury lawyers explain the issue in more detail below.
What Are the Potential Side Effects and Injuries Caused by Philips CPAP and BiPAP Machines?
The PE-PUR component of the machine is made from a polyester-based polyurethane. It is used to reduce the noise the machine makes when it is in use.
However, the foam may break down and disintegrate. When this occurs, the foam can enter the machine’s air pathway. As a result, the person using the machine could inhale or ingest toxic fumes and possible carcinogenic substances.
The defective component in the Respironics ventilators, CPAP, and BiPAP machines can result in health risks for consumers. Side effects and injuries a person may experience because of the defective component include, but are not limited to:
- Skin, respiratory tract, and eye irritation
- Headaches
- Possible risk of cancer
- Inflammation
- Respiratory issues
- Adverse conditions of the liver, kidneys, and other organs
- Possible toxic effects
In addition, consumers may notice particles and black debris in the air pathway of the CPAP machines. After using a defective Philips Respironics machine, some consumers reported experiencing chest pressure, sinus infections, and upper airway irritation. Other consumers reported experiencing nausea, vomiting, and hypersensitivity.
Off-gassing is also a potential risk of using the defective medical device. Off-gassing is the release of harmful organic compounds or chemicals as a vapor.
What Compensation Can You Recover for Damages Caused by a Philips Respironics CPAP Machine?
If you were injured or harmed after using a defective CPAP machine, you could be entitled to compensation. Manufacturers and other parties may be liable for your injuries and damages. You could receive compensation for damages including:
- Medical bills and expenses for treatment of injuries and complications caused by the defective medical device
- Loss of income if you miss work because of an injury or illness
- Future lost wages and lost wages if you cannot work because of an impairment or disability caused by the machine
- Pain and suffering caused by mental anguish, physical injuries, or emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life and quality of life
- Impairments and disabilities caused by the defective machine
You have the burden of proving that the CPAP, BiPAP, or ventilator caused your injury before you can recover compensation for your damages. Seek legal advice from an experienced product liability lawyer as soon as possible. The time to file claims for injuries caused by Respironics CPAP machines and ventilators is limited.
Contact Our Virginia Personal Injury Attorney for a Free Consultation
Contact your doctor immediately if you use a Philips Respironics Ventilator, CPAP, or BiPAP Machine on the recall notice. In addition, contact our Virginia personal injury attorneys for a free consultation if you experience any side effects or adverse events after using one of these machines. You could be entitled to compensation for injuries and damages caused by a defective medical device.