The Impact of Medical Device Failures on Patients

Technological advancements in medicine have enabled more precise diagnoses and effective treatments. However, when advanced medical equipment fails, the consequences for patients can be severe. From misdiagnoses to surgical complications, these errors are not rare. According to the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE), thousands of incidents involving device failures are reported annually in the United States.

This blog explores the main risks and how the legal system protects victims in Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Common Medical Equipment Failures

– Errors in Mechanical Ventilator Programming: Incorrect settings during surgeries or critical care can lead to respiratory failure.

– Surgical Robot Malfunctions: Technology Review reports that between 2007 and 2013, 144 deaths were linked to surgical robot errors.

– Faulty Monitoring of Vital Signs: Poorly calibrated devices can miss critical patient alerts.

– Defective Infusion Pumps: These errors result in incorrect medication dosages.

– Diagnostic Imaging Errors: Failures in MRI or CT scanners hinder accurate diagnoses.

Legal Impact of Equipment Failures

Laws in Maryland and Washington, D.C. hold manufacturers, hospitals, and healthcare professionals accountable for ensuring the proper functioning of medical equipment. Under the Maryland Product Liability Act, manufacturers may be liable for defective devices.

In cases of medical negligence, affected patients can seek compensation for physical harm, medical expenses, and emotional losses.

Prevention and Legal Rights

Medical institutions must implement preventive maintenance programs.
Healthcare professionals require continuous training to safely operate advanced equipment.
If you suspect that a device failure caused harm, consulting an attorney is crucial to evaluate legal options.

In resume, failures in advanced medical equipment not only compromise treatment quality but also endanger patients’ lives. Laws in Maryland and Washington, D.C. provide tools to seek justice. At Stecco Law, we are committed to defending your rights if you’ve been a victim of negligence related to technological failures.