A Pennsylvania judge ruled that the personal injury cases stemming from the defective Artelon Spacers be designated a mass tort. Doctors used the Artelon Spacers to treat osteoarthritis of the hand. Surgeons implanted the T-shaped device in the patients’ hand near the base of the thumb.
Patients with the Artelon Spacer quickly complained of burning, swelling, loss of range of motion in the hand and a misshapen thumb. There were also reports of the device breaking once implanted in the hand. Subsequently, some patients required an additional surgery to remove the defective device.
The device’s purpose was to act as a substitute cushion in the hand for patients with early and mid-stage osteoarthritis. The manufacturer marketed it as a device that would provide joint stability with quick recovery and minimal pain. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began receiving complaints about the device, and medical studies show it failing at an extremely high rate.
Attorneys encourage anyone harmed by the Artelon Spacer to seek counsel immediately. Contact a Florida lawyer if you suffered injuries from the Artelon Spacer or any other defective product. A Florida injury attorney will protect your rights and seek the best financial compensation possible for your pain and suffering.