Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm | Advocating for Victims of Harmful Medical Device Defects
CPAP, BiPAP, and Ventilator Machines Linked to Serious Health Risks
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machines, commonly used to treat sleep apnea, have been linked to serious health risks. In June 2021, a massive recall by Philips Respironics warned that millions of these devices could expose users to harmful, potentially cancer-causing particles. Philips disclosed that the sound-abatement foam used in these machines can break down over time, releasing toxic particles and gases that users can inhale or ingest. The result? Thousands of individuals may have unknowingly suffered serious health conditions, including cancer, respiratory issues, and organ damage, due to prolonged exposure to this foam.
At Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm, we stand by individuals and families who trusted their CPAP or BiPAP devices, only to experience devastating health effects as a result. Our firm is dedicated to fighting for justice for those harmed by defective medical devices and holding corporations accountable for putting profits over people.
The Philips CPAP Recall: What Happened?
Philips Respironics, a leading medical device manufacturer, issued a recall affecting approximately 15 million CPAP, BiPAP, and ventilator machines. The issue centers on the polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) foam used in these devices for sound reduction, which, according to Philips, can degrade, especially when exposed to high heat or humidity. The degradation of this foam results in the release of toxic particles and gases that users can breathe in or swallow during normal use.
Recalled CPAP, BiPAP, and Ventilator Models: If you or a loved one used any of the following Philips models, you may be eligible to file a claim:
- DreamStation (1st Generation)
- SystemOne (CPAP and BiPAP models)
- Trilogy (ventilator devices)
- C-Series (CPAP and BiPAP models)
- E30 (ventilator model)
Philips announced the recall acknowledging the potential harm associated with these devices, but for many, the damage was already done. If you were affected by one of these recalled machines, Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation.
Health Risks Associated with CPAP and BiPAP Device Foam Degradation
The breakdown of PE-PUR foam used in Philips CPAP and BiPAP devices poses severe health risks to users. Exposure to the toxic particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by degraded foam can lead to a range of adverse health effects, including:
- Respiratory Issues: Lung irritation, asthma, and respiratory infections
- Organ Damage: Liver, kidney, and other organ complications from prolonged exposure to toxins
- Cancer Risk: Inhaling carcinogenic compounds over time may increase the risk of developing cancers, particularly of the respiratory tract
- Toxic Effects: The foam degradation releases hazardous chemicals that can cause systemic toxicity
Patients trusted these devices to improve their quality of life, only to suffer from life-threatening health issues due to inadequate testing and quality control.
Legal Grounds for Filing a CPAP Mass Tort Claim
When a medical device, such as a CPAP or BiPAP machine, causes harm due to design flaws or manufacturing defects, affected individuals have the right to seek justice. Philips Respironics had a duty to ensure that its products were safe for long-term use. Failure to test the durability of PE-PUR foam under typical usage conditions represents a significant breach of this duty.
Your claim may involve any of the following legal arguments:
- Product Liability: Under product liability laws, manufacturers are strictly liable for design defects or manufacturing flaws that make their products unsafe.
- Failure to Warn: Philips Respironics did not provide adequate warning about the potential health risks of using its devices, even though they were aware of the dangers.
- Negligence: By failing to conduct adequate product testing and failing to notify users of potential health risks promptly, Philips Respironics acted negligently.
By filing a mass tort claim, you have the opportunity to seek compensation for the financial, emotional, and physical costs you’ve endured due to these defective devices.
How Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm Can Help
Mass tort cases allow individuals who suffered similar harm from a defective product to band together in legal action against a manufacturer. Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm is committed to standing with those harmed by Philips Respironics’ negligence. Our attorneys have the experience and resources necessary to pursue complex mass tort claims, helping you secure the compensation and justice you deserve.
Compensation Available for CPAP and BiPAP Claimants
If you or a loved one used a recalled Philips CPAP or BiPAP device and experienced health complications, you may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for surgeries, cancer treatment, respiratory therapies, and ongoing medical care
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time off work due to health complications related to the CPAP device
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional suffering caused by your health issues
- Future Medical Care: Anticipated healthcare needs related to long-term effects of toxin exposure
Our team will work tirelessly to help you secure compensation that reflects the impact of this harm on your life.
Why Choose Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm for Your CPAP Mass Tort Claim?
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in a mass tort case. Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals harmed by unsafe medical devices. Our firm brings compassionate representation and strategic litigation skills to your case, ensuring you receive the support and advocacy you need.
Our approach includes:
- Personalized Service: We take the time to understand your story and how your life has been affected.
- Aggressive Representation: We’re committed to holding major corporations accountable and seeking maximum compensation on your behalf.
- Comprehensive Case Management: From investigation to litigation, we handle every detail of your case, working to build the strongest possible claim.
Begin Your CPAP Claim with Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm
If you’ve suffered from health complications due to a Philips CPAP, BiPAP, or ventilator machine, you’re not alone. Families across the country are filing claims to hold Philips Respironics accountable for the harm caused by its defective devices. At Kaufman & McPherson Law Firm, we’re ready to stand with you, offering the legal support you need to seek justice.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case, explore your options, and begin the process of seeking compensation for your injuries. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
