Cochlear implants are supposed to provide relief to patients who are hearing impaired. Unfortunately, many times, cochlear implants end up causing more harm than good when they are negligently implanted. If you or someone close to you was harmed due to a cochlear implant, our experienced and reputable Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys can help you determine your legal options. While we aim to settle every case, we are not afraid to zealously advocate for your rights in the courtroom.
A cochlear implant is an electronic device that stimulates the nerves inside the inner ear, resulting in an increased hearing capacity. These devices are helpful when hearing aids don’t work because they produce hearing sensations while nerves within the inner ear are electronically stimulated. It is important to note that cochlear implants can help both children and adults who are deaf. According to the Food and Drug Administration, as of 2012, about 324,200 people worldwide have received cochlear implants, and more than 26 percent of recipients lived in the United States.
In some cases, the cochlear device is designed or manufactured defectively, causing an injury to the patient. Some examples of problems that could occur due to a cochlear implant include loss of hearing, damage to the cochlea, tissue death in surrounding skin, pain or discomfort, popping sounds, and even shock to the patient. When a medical device malfunctions, you may be able to sue the manufacturer, retailer, or distributor through a product liability claim.
In other cases, your doctor may be liable for your cochlear implant injuries. Medical professionals can be sued if their conduct fell below the professional standard of care to which medical professionals are held. Put another way, health care providers are expected to adhere to a certain standard of care. If they deviate from that standard of care and cause an injury to a patient, they will likely be liable for malpractice. The standard of care refers to a doctor’s duty to use the level of care that a prudent doctor in the same specialty would use in the same or similar circumstances.
Medical professionals are expected to inform parents of any risks that may be involved when using any type of medical device in children. Children implanted with cochlear devices should be carefully monitored for signs of any issues, such as bacterial meningitis. If a medical professional fails to adhere to a standard of care and causes harm to a child, that physician may be held liable.
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries related to a cochlear implant, a seasoned Baltimore medical malpractice attorney can help you determine whether or not you may be able to recover compensation for your harm. At Arfaa Law Group, we are committed to providing reliable legal advice at every step of the way. We understand how stressful this type of case can be, which is why we will try to make the process as seamless as possible for you. For more information about your legal rights and options, do not hesitate to call 410-889-1850 or contact us online.
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