Guidant

[Yaps]

Family: Faulty implanted heart defibrillator caused man's death
Last Update: 7/14/2005 3:28:42 PM


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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) - The family of an elderly man who died when the heart defibrillator implanted in his chest allegedly failed is suing the device's maker.

The suit was filed on behalf of Bobby Smith's eldest son, Robert Earl Smith.

Attorneys say there are about 24-thousand patients nationwide who have received defective implants. They add that they will seek to make their suit against Guidant Corporation a class-action.

The son says his 75-year-old father collapsed and died in his backyard this May when the defibrillator in his chest failed.

The computer mouse-size devices are implanted in patients at risk of suddenly having their heart beat ineffectively. They are supposed to sense the problem and automatically shock the heart back to a normal rhythm.

http://www.cbs47.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=475FD511-113E-45E8-9CD1-1275A4067F42

 

[Mary]

I've been watching the papers since Runner posted this information back a few months ago. Last night I saw it on CBS.

I wonder if they're offering to pick up the cost of the surgical implantation of the new devices? Does anyone know?

 

[M&M]

Hi Mary, I just read your post. My understanding of the situation is that Guidant pays for the actual replacement part 'device' - my insurance would have to pick up the hospital costs !!!

I think if your on medicare - I think medicare picks up the hospital cost as well - but its best to get a preauthorization prior to surgery. Its amazing that most articles sound like Guidant pays for everything - but they don't - Hospital costs can run upwards of $25,000 and some people have dollar caps on their health insurance.

Best Wishes
Marilyn