Have you or a loved one suffered complications after receiving an Abbott Trifecta heart valve? Arizona patients throughout Chicago and statewide are experiencing premature valve deterioration requiring high-risk additional surgeries and facing potentially life-threatening situations due to these defective medical devices.
The Arizona Abbott Trifecta valve lawyers at Flanagan Injury Law Group are investigating cases where these heart valves are failing years before their expected lifespan, leaving patients with severe health complications and overwhelming medical expenses.
On February 17, 2023, Abbott Laboratories issued an urgent safety notice acknowledging higher-than-expected rates of torn valve leaflets and early deterioration. For many Chicago patients, this warning came too late, after they had already suffered serious complications or undergone risky revision surgeries.
If you received a Trifecta valve between 2011 and February 2023 and experienced complications or required additional surgery, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Our dedicated Chicago medical device attorneys are ready to evaluate your case and fight for the justice you deserve.
Understanding Valve Failures
The Abbott Trifecta Valve is a bovine pericardial heart valve designed to replace a patient’s damaged aortic valve. Introduced in 2011, these valves were marketed to Chicago cardiac patients as durable solutions with a 15-20 year lifespan, making them appear ideal for long-term heart health.
However, mounting evidence shows these valves failing at alarming rates, often within just 3-5 years after implantation. This premature deterioration forces patients into dangerous repeat surgeries they never expected to face.
Research published in JAMA Cardiology found Trifecta valves have a three-fold higher risk of structural deterioration compared to similar products. Additional studies in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery documented concerning rates of leaflet tears and calcification that compromise valve function.
When these valves fail, patients experience shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats. Many Arizona patients have required emergency revision surgery, a procedure with mortality rates significantly higher than initial valve replacements.
Despite growing evidence of problems, Abbott allegedly delayed warning patients and physicians about these risks until February 2023, potentially endangering thousands of Arizona heart valve recipients.
Life-Threatening Valve Complications
Chicago patients with Abbott Trifecta heart valves have reported numerous severe complications. Understanding these risks is crucial when considering legal action against the manufacturer.
Despite promised durability, many valves deteriorate within 3-5 years, forcing patients into dangerous replacement surgeries.
Valve leaflets often tear prematurely, restricting blood flow and causing dangerous cardiac strain.
Failed valves allow blood regurgitation, causing fatigue, breathing difficulties, and serious cardiac complications.
Valve failures require additional surgeries with mortality rates up to five times higher than initial procedures.
Some Arizona cases have resulted in death, stroke, or permanent cardiac damage from these defective valves.
The Arizona Abbott Trifecta valve attorneys at Flanagan Injury Law Group understand the devastating impact these complications have on Chicago families. Our team is committed to helping victims secure the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, lost income, and ongoing suffering.
Your Legal Rights
Patients harmed by Abbott Trifecta valves have strong legal grounds for seeking compensation. Understanding these principles helps determine if filing a claim is right for your situation.
Evidence suggests fundamental flaws in the Trifecta valve design, creating strong product liability grounds.
Abbott allegedly knew about valve deterioration risks but failed to properly warn doctors and patients.
The company marketed these valves as durable despite apparent knowledge of potential early failure issues.
Some cases involve manufacturing defects that compromised valve integrity and contributed to failures.
The Abbott Trifecta valve lawyers at Flanagan Injury Law Group understand the complex medical and legal issues involved in these cases. Our Chicago-based team helps Arizona patients document their injuries and build compelling legal claims while time limitations still permit action.
Do You Qualify?
If you or a loved one received an Abbott Trifecta heart valve and experienced complications, you may be eligible for compensation. Our Arizona medical device attorneys are evaluating cases that meet these criteria:
Qualification factors:
- Received an Abbott Trifecta valve between 2011 and February 17, 2023
- Valve models include TF-19A through TF-29A or TFGT-19A through TFGT-29A
- Experienced valve failure requiring reoperation
- Diagnosed with valve stenosis, regurgitation, or leaflet deterioration
- Lost a family member due to complications from a failed Trifecta valve
Important evidence to collect:
- Surgical records confirming Trifecta valve implantation
- Medical imaging showing valve deterioration
- Documentation of valve-related symptoms
- Records of any reoperation or additional procedures
- Medical bills related to valve complications
Even without current symptoms, regular cardiac monitoring is essential if you have a Trifecta valve. The Chicago Abbott Trifecta valve attorneys at Flanagan Injury Law Group can help determine if you have a valid claim.
Protecting Your Health & Rights
If you have an Abbott Trifecta heart valve, taking prompt action is essential. Follow these important steps if you believe you’re affected by this defective medical device.
Schedule an immediate cardiologist appointment for comprehensive valve assessment, even without obvious symptoms.
Obtain all medical documentation, including surgical notes with your specific valve model number.
Monitor for breathing problems, chest pain, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat. Seek immediate care if they develop.
Track all medical costs, medications, travel expenses, missed work, and lifestyle impacts from your valve issues.
Time limitations restrict how long you have to file a claim. The Arizona Abbott Trifecta valve lawyers at Flanagan Injury Law Group can quickly determine if you qualify for compensation through our simple case evaluation process.
Free Claim Review
Affected by a failed Abbott Trifecta valve? The Chicago Abbott Trifecta valve attorneys at Flanagan Injury Law Group can fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t delay – check your eligibility today.
