da Vinci Robot

Understanding the da vinci robot burn risk

In May 2013, Intuitive Surgery warned hospitals that a component used in its da Vinci surgical robot system may be putting patients at risk for burn injuries. According to the company’s urgent notification, some versions of the system’s Hot Shears may be prone to small cracks, potentially creating a pathway for an electro-surgical charge. Unfortunately, the cracks may or may not be visible.  

The company has already received at least one documented report of injury linked to a cracked instrument. Despite this risk, the company elected not to recall the Hot Shears and announced that it would begin to remove the affected instruments from hospitals when a replacement becomes available.

One investigation found that the FDA has received over 4,500 complaints of side effects, injuries, deaths, and adverse events linked to the robot.   

If you’re considering filing a claim for injuries sustained from a da Vinci robot, Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys can help you in the following ways:

Uses of the Da vinci surgical robot

The da Vinci surgical robot is an alternative surgical method to laparoscopic procedures and has increasingly gained popularity with hospitals since its FDA approval in 2000. The robot is designed to perform minimally invasive surgery in procedures including urologic, laparoscopic, gynecological, and non-cardiothoracoscopic surgical procedures.

Some examples in which da Vinci Surgical System has been chosen over its alternative procedure, laparoscopic surgery, include: 

• Complete or partial hysterectomies 
• Treatment of uterine fibroids 
• Kidney disorders 
• Prostate removal procedures 
• Throat and kidney cancers 
• Endometriosis 
• Heavy intrauterine bleeding 
• Surgeries to reduce obesity 

Hospitals and doctors often choose it over laparoscopic surgery due to Intuitive’s claims that it is as safe as laparoscopic surgery while reducing patients’ recovery time. 

There have been no conclusive studies showing the da Vinci robot is a better or safer choice for doctors performing minimally invasive procedures – in fact, many signs indicate its negative attributes outweigh its benefits.  

The costs of the robot significantly outweigh those of laparoscopic surgeries. The surgery takes longer, and recovery times have not been proven to be substantially shorter than those of similar procedures. Additionally, no conclusive studies have shown that the robot is a safer or better choice than other minimally invasive procedures.  

complications that can lead to a da vinci robot lawsuit

Complaints against the manufacturer of the Da Vinci Robot allege design flaws in the device, including uninsulated surgical arms that cause burns and electrical currents that can deviate from the intended surgical route to healthy organs and tissue, damaging them in the process.  

If you are considering legal action, be aware of the complications associated with the da Vinci Surgical System, including: 

• Surgical burns to organs or tissues 
• Tears or punctures to arteries or organs 
• Infections resulting from surgical complications 
• Extended or unexpected recovery times 
• Loss of function or mobility issues post-surgery 
• Death 

Additionally, the complaints made against the manufacturer allege that they failed to warn healthcare professionals and potential patients of the risks that can be involved in its use.  

Unfortunately, complications from the surgery may not be evident until days after the procedure is completed, which uses up valuable time that could be used to treat the injury. 

Manufacturer response to da Vinci safety complaints

Intuitive Surgery, taking an unprompted step to mitigate the situation, sent replacement tip covers to all hospitals with the da Vinci device. While the original tips were not deemed defective, the company requested an immediate switch from the existing tips to reduce the chance of sparking.

However, surgeons who have observed the device’s use do not believe the robot’s tip is a problem. Instead, their observations lead them to believe the burns stem from the scissor blade. Intuitive stands firm in their belief that the da Vinci device is no more dangerous than traditional laparoscopic devices, which they claim could cause similar issues during surgery. 

Da vinci surgical system cases: Navigating medical technology lawsuits

The da Vinci Surgical System has revolutionized minimally invasive surgery, offering unparalleled precision, flexibility, and control. However, as with any advanced medical technology, there have been reports of complications and adverse outcomes attributed to its use. These incidents have led to legal actions where patients seek representation from experienced lawyers who understand the function and malfunction of the da Vinci robot.  

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries that may be linked to the da Vinci Surgical System, understanding your rights and the potential for legal recourse is essential. A lawsuit can provide compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain, and suffering and help highlight the need for stringent safety protocols. 

Consult a Shunnarah lawyer for your da Vinci robot claim

The complexity of cases involving advanced medical technologies like the da Vinci Surgical System requires the insight of lawyers specialized in this field. Statutes of limitations can affect your ability to file a claim, making it important to seek legal advice promptly.  

At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, our team of experienced da Vinci Robot lawyers can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and work towards securing the compensation you deserve. If you believe your complications stem from a procedure involving the da Vinci Surgical System, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation.