Something to be aware of, hip replacements, heart defibrillators, and more. This may not be something one would want to think about right after having a hip replacement. There has been a big difference on the way the FDA clears devices versus drugs. As devices are getting smaller and smarter, it’s a challenge to keep up with the latest technology for all. 300,000 deaths are associated with devices each year. Medtronic just recently had their recall. Once you have a device it is there for life, a bit different from taking a drug. Be sure to read up on the latest with medical devices before making a decision if possible. Last but not least, how does one’s health insurance handle this…something to ponder when a device is recalled….BD
For someone prone to dangerous heart rhythms, implanted defibrillators deliver a shock that restores a normal heartbeat, often saving a life. Unfortunately, when the electrode wires to the heart fail, they may not deliver the critical shock, or deliver shocks when they aren't needed, sometimes taking a life. When concerns about the device arose, it was unclear despite years of use and thousands of patients if there was truly a performance problem. The company finally studied 25,000 patients and eventually recalled the defective electrode. Similar recalls have affected hundreds of thousands of defibrillators and pacemakers (without defibrillators) in recent years.
Opinion | Don't be too eager to try the latest medical gadgets | Seattle Times Newspaper
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