A Forced-Air Warming Blanket is a medical device that surgeons often utilize to regulate a patient’s body temperature during surgery.
Studies have shown that the use of Forced-Air Air Warming Blankets during surgery significantly increases a patient’s risk of developing serious, and sometimes life-threatening, post-surgical infections.
How Forced-Air Warming Blankets Work
Forced-Air Warming Blankets are commonly used during joint replacement surgeries. These medical devices are currently used in more than 80% of U.S hospitals. Forced-Air Warming Blankets transport heated air through a hose and distribute the warm air over the patient’s body through a special inflatable blanket.
However, repeated testing has revealed that the air pumped through the blanket can transmit dangerous bacteria and contaminants to the surgical site. This dramatically increases a patient’s risk of developing Surgical Site Infections (SSIs).
Increased Risk of Surgical Site Infection (SSI)
Many prominent experts, including the Bone and Joint Journal, as well as the creator of the Forced-Air Warming Blanket himself, have urged hospitals to stop using these devices during certain surgical procedures.
A 2011 study by the Bone and Joint Journal found that Forced-Air Warming Blankets may increase the risk of post-surgery deep joint infection by as much as 380%.
Deep joint and Surgical Site Infections are a serious health problem that can require expensive, prolonged medical treatment, and even additional surgery. In some cases, post surgical infections can even cause patient death.
Henson Fuerst Can Help
If you or a loved one suffered an unexplained bacterial infection after joint replacement surgery, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain, suffering, lost wages and associated medical expenses. Call the experienced North Carolina Product Liability attorneys at Henson Fuerst immediately at (919) 781-1107 or complete a free initial consultation form.
When you trust Henson Fuerst with your Product Liability case, we will leave no stone unturned and investigate every detail of your situation. Henson Fuerst is made up of experienced North Carolina attorneys ready to advocate for your rights with compassion and determination. You will never pay an attorney’s fee up front, and you owe our firm nothing unless we recover for you.
