
Raizner Slania filed a lawsuit against 3M Company and Arizant Healthcare on behalf of a Wisconsin family after the mother sustained an infection from the Bair Hugger warming blanket used during her surgery.
In September 2010, the plaintiff underwent a total knee replacement surgery in which the Bair Hugger warming blanket was used throughout the scope of the procedure. As a direct result of using the Bair Hugger, contaminants were introduced into the plaintiff’s open surgical wound, causing her to develop a periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), also known as a deep joint infection (DJI).
The pathogen was later identified as Staphylococcus Epidermis, which can be incredibly challenging to treat because it is immune to many antibiotics, including penicillin, methicillin, and amoxicillin.
In order to treat the infection, the plaintiff was forced to undergo irrigation and debridement, removal and replacement surgery, antibiotic therapy, and additional treatments to stop the spread of infection, such as blood transfusions.
Not only did plaintiff suffered severe physical and emotional pain, but she also suffered substantial economic loss from extensive medical bills.
The plaintiff believes the Bair Hugger is defective in design and manufacture and that 3M and Arizant are in breach of Wisconsin’s implied warranty of merchantability. The plaintiff also asserts 3M and Arizant committed consumer fraud and/or unfair and deceptive trade practices under Wisconsin law.
Bair Hugger Infection Lawsuits
The Bair Hugger device is used in over 80% of hospitals across America and is commonly used during knee and hip replacement surgeries. Because of the device’s popularity, thousands of Americans have been exposed to an increased risk of post-operative infections. Over 800 patients have filed injury lawsuits against the manufacturers.
Raizner Slania: Bair Hugger Infection Injury Lawyers
If you or someone you love developed an infection after a total hip and/or knee replacement surgery within the last five years, you may be able to file a claim. Call the experienced defective medical device attorneys at Raizner Slania today for a free consultation to discuss your case. We can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential consultation.