Cochlear Implants

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Cochlear Implants Recall

A 2004 cochlear implant recall was issued following several reports of injuries related to a defective batch of the medical devices.

What are Cochlear Implants?

Cochlear implants are intricate, surgically implanted electronic devices that improve the perception of sound in people with profound hearing loss. Also referred to as bionic ears, cochlear implants are different from hearing aids – Where as hearing aids amplify sounds, cochlear implants:

convert sounds into electric impulses
send these impulses to functioning parts of the auditory nerve

From here, the auditory nerve sends the impulses to the brain, which ultimately converts them into sounds or concepts.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), over 112,000 people worldwide have cochlear implants.

Complications with Defective Cochlear Implants

Despite their effectiveness, however, manufacturing defects in the recent past have led to complications with use of cochlear implants. In fact, in September 2004, Boston Scientific Corporation (BSC) alerted the public that one of its subsidiaries, Advanced Bionics (in Ca.), was issuing a voluntary recall of:

CLARION® cochlear implants
HiResolution® cochlear implants.

Why Cochlear Implants were Recalled

According to Advanced Bionics and the FDA, about 440 defective cochlear implants contain residual moisture within their circuitry.

While this internal residual moisture won't cause outright harm to patients, it can stop the cochlear implants from properly functioning. Indications that cochlear implants are malfunctioning include:

complete loss of sound
discomfort or pain
intermittent functioning
sudden loud noises or popping

Children with cochlear implants may resist attaching the device's external component.

Should adults suspect that their (or their child's) cochlear implant is defective, they should see their auditory specialist immediately for a thorough exam. If cochlear implants are of the recalled batches, patients will need a new device implanted.

Other Cochlear Implant Injuries

Along with complications resulting from recalled cochlear implants, patients may also develop side effects after using this device. Although rare, known side effects of cochlear implants may include:

Total loss of natural hearing due to damaged cochlea cells (This damage can occur during implantation of this device.)
Bacterial meningitis, a life-threatening inflammation of the brain and/or spinal cord
Tissue death in the skin surrounding cochlear implants.

Meeting with a Cochlear Implant Recall Lawyer

Patients who have been affected by recalled cochlear implants – as well as those who have suffered cochlear implant side effects - should meet with a personal injury lawyer, once they have undergone necessary procedures and medical treatments.

During a free initial consultation, experienced cochlear implant lawyers will evaluate the details of the case to determine whether the affected patient qualifies to file a cochlear implant lawsuit. Patients who are eligible to file a claim will benefit from the expertise and knowledge of an experienced attorney.

Those who decide to stand up for their legal rights and pursue a cochlear implant lawsuit can win compensation for their:

past hospital bills
ongoing treatment costs
permanent disabilities
lost wages
future living costs
pain and suffering

Have you or a loved one been injured after use of a recalled Cochlear Implant? If so, contact a cochlear implant attorney who can evaluate your claim and help you seek compensation for the damages you incurred.

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