Bair Hugger warming blankets have been linked to infections and several lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturers. The blankets were designed by Dr. Scott D. Augustine in 1988 to prevent hypothermia in patients that have undergone surgery. Dr. Augustine marketed the device under his medical supply company Arizant, and they are used millions of times every year. In 2002, Augustine resigned from his position as CEO and in 2010, 3M purchased the company.
Over the past few months, 15 lawsuits have been filed against Bair Hugger’s manufacturer, 3M, stating the company was negligent by producing a device that can lead to the harm of a patient. Dr. Augustine has come forward agreeing that there is an issue with his design and cited several examples of how the product showed potential to cause harm. 3M has denied Augustine’s allegations and released a statement claiming he has a personal vendetta. The current lawsuits are pending, and the attorneys are requesting that they be combined in a multi-district litigation.
Millions of individuals are required to have procedures and surgeries every year to increase their quality of life. Unfortunately, the number of surgeries and procedures increase the risk of an injury caused by medical malpractice, dangerous drugs, and defective medical devices. Negligence on the part of the hospital, staff, or pharmaceutical company may be grounds to file a case.
The skilled St. Louis personal injury attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth will take all steps necessary to investigate your accident, hold negligent parties accountable, and fight to recover the maximum compensation for your damages. Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation.