To learn the details of the Philips Respironics CPAP recall and the steps you should take if you have been using an affected device, continue reading and contact our experienced defective medical device attorney.
What is a CPAP machine?
A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is used to treat sleep apnea disorders by sending a steady flow of oxygen into the user’s nose and mouth as they sleep by keeping the airways open. This is done by generating a stream of pressurized air that travels through an air filter into a flexible tube that delivers purified air into a mask that is sealed around the nose or mouth. The machine will push against any blockages as the user sleeps by opening the airways to allow the lungs to receive ample oxygen.
The Philips Respironics CPAP Recall
Philips Respironics has recalled certain CPAP machines due to possible health risks including carcinogenic and toxic effects due to the polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) sound abatement foam that is used to reduce sound and vibration in these affected devices. This foam may break down and potentially enter the device’s air pathway. This may cause black debris from the foam or certain chemicals to be inhaled or swallowed. Ingestion or inhalation of these particles has been linked to the following effects: chemical exposure risk, respiratory issues, toxic and carcinogenic effects.
What should I do if I have an affected device?
Speak with your health care provider to determine the next step you should take after discovering that you have been using an affected device. The following are some of the most common plans of action for a person to take after using an affected device:
- If your health care provider determines that the benefits outweigh the risks identified in the recall notification, continue to use your affected device.
- Use another similar device that is not part of the recall.
- Stop using the device.
- Initiate long-term therapies for sleep apnea. Some of these tactics may include losing weight, avoiding alcohol, stopping smoking, or surgical options for moderate to severe sleep apnea cases.
- Use alternative treatments for sleep apnea. This may include positional therapy or oral appliances.
Next, you should register your device on the Philips Respironics’ recall website to receive updates from Philips regarding any corrective measures or new instructions regarding your affected device. Report any issues you have encountered with your device by filling out the FDA’s MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form.
If your medical provider has decided it is best for you to continue to use your device, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding replacement and cleaning the machine and its accessories.
If you have developed cancer or a serious health issue after using an affected device, you may be seeking to take legal action. Contact our defective medical devices law firm today to learn how we can assist you. Our legal team at Brock & Goetzmann has experience representing victims of defective medical devices. We are prepared to take on your case today. Give us a call to learn more about our services and how we can assist you. If you have any further questions regarding taking legal action after being injured or sustaining an illness due to a defective medical device, look no further than our firm.
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.
