If you have been impacted by the Philips Respironics CPAP recall, continue reading and contact our experienced defective medical device attorney to learn how you can take action.
What is a CPAP machine?
A CPAP machine is a continuous positive airway pressure machine that is used to treat sleep apnea disorders. The machine sends a steady flow of oxygen into the user’s nose and mouth as they sleep. This keeps the user’s airways open. The machine works by generating a stream of pressurized air that travels through an air filter into a flexible tube that delivers purified air into the mask. The mask is sealed around the user’s nose and mouth. The machine opens the airways to allow the lungs to receive ample oxygen and push against any blockages as the user sleeps.
The Philips Respironics CPAP Recall
Due to possible health risks, Philips Respironics has recalled certain CPAP machines. These potential health risks include carcinogenic and toxic effects. These effects are due to the polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) sound abatement foam. This foam is used to reduce sound and vibration in these affected devices. This foam may break down and potentially enter the device’s air pathway, causing black debris from the foam or certain chemicals to be inhaled or swallowed.
The following effects have been linked to ingesting or inhaling these particles:
- Chemical exposure risk
- Respiratory issues
- Toxic and carcinogenic effects
What should I do if I have an affected device?
To learn the next steps you should take if you have discovered that you have been using an affected device, speak with your health care provider. The most common plans of action for an individual to take include the following:
- Stop using the device.
- Use a different but similar device that is not part of the recall.
- Initiate long-term therapies for sleep apnea.
- Use alternative treatments for sleep apnea such as positional therapy or oral appliances.
- Continue use of your affected device if your health care provider determines that the benefits outweigh the risks identified in the recall notification.
You should also register your device on the Philips Respironics’ recall website. Doing so will allow you to receive updates from Philips regarding any corrective measures or new instructions regarding your affected device.
It is also important that you report any issues you have encountered with your affected device by filling out the FDA’s MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form.
If you are looking to take legal action for the injuries or illnesses that you have received from your affected device, look no further than our experienced defective medical device firm at Brock & Goetzmann. Give our legal team a call today to get started.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED TEXAS FIRM
Brock & Goetzmann has significant experience representing victims of defective medical devices in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you have been impacted in any way by a defective medical device, preserve the evidence and call us to investigate. Give our experienced Texas firm a call today to schedule your initial consultation.
