Bair Hugger Lawsuits Are Still Happening: Are You Owed?

The Bair Hugger Forced Air Warming Blanket was intended to help keep patients warm during surgery when body temperatures can drop dangerously low. However, the doctor who invented the system later told the New York Times that the Bair Hugger posed a danger to some patients. Published studies also warn of the risk posed by the device.

More than 7,000 cases have been filed, yet the Bair Hugger is still in use across the country, possibly exposing even more patients to infection.

For help with your case and a free professional opinion on how much you may be owed, call 1-866-900-7078 today. There is no obligation.

What Exactly Is the Bair Hugger and How Does It Work?

The Bair Hugger is essentially a blanket that uses a forced air heater to stabilize the body temperature of a surgical patient. Studies have shown that patients who are kept warm bleed less and may recover faster. The Bair Hugger is commonly used in joint replacement surgeries due to the length of those procedures, though it has been used in a variety of surgical applications.

Who Makes the Bair Hugger?

The device was originally manufactured by Augustine Medical but the company evolved into Arizant, Inc. and changed leadership. Arizant was purchased by 3M in 2010 and has continued to produce the device.

Now, 3M is the main defendant in ongoing Bair Hugger lawsuits.

How Does the Bair Hugger System Put Patients at Risk?

Surgical suites in hospitals are very carefully controlled environments aimed at reducing the chance of infection in surgical patients. But lawsuits allege that the Bair Hugger Forced Air Blanket disrupts the airflow and ventilation in operating rooms.

One study showed that the units can pull air from non-sterile surfaces, like the operating room floor.  As a result, they can force bacteria particles into the warmed air and, therefore, into the surgical site. Those injured claim that the devices were not manufactured well enough to prevent contamination and serious harm.

How Have Patients Suffered as a Result of the Bair Hugger?

Many people bringing Bair Hugger lawsuits allege that they have developed deep joint infections after their operations, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. MRSA infections are very dangerous and can lead to many health problems, including:

• Pneumonia
• Skin infections
• Bloodstream infection
• Sepsis

Patients claim that as a result of infections caused by the defective Bair Hugger system, they have suffered serious harm, including:

• Limb amputation
• Corrective surgery
• Implant replacement
• Extended hospitalization
• And more

Do you have a case against 3M? Get clarity on your case by calling 1-866-900-7078 today. There is no cost or obligation.

What Compensation Am I Owed if I Was Harmed Due to a Bair Hugger?

If you have suffered an infection or injury due to a Bair Hugger forced-air warming blanket used during a surgical procedure, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Financial losses – Lost work time and wages (including future earnings if your injury disables you)
• Pain and suffering – Physical pain and discomfort, restricted mobility, and reduced quality of life
• Past and future medical care and permanent injuries – You have likely paid many medical bills and may have more to come – related expenses should not be yours to bear if 3M was negligent in continuing to produce the Bair Hugger

How Can a Bair Hugger Lawsuit Attorney Help Me?

Bringing a case against the maker of a defective product can be a serious challenge. Manufacturers like 3M have massive resources and large legal teams to dedicate to their defense. Some manufacturers may be especially aggressive when fighting defective product claims because if one case succeeds, other cases can gain significant momentum.

An experienced attorney can help you by:

• Managing the details, including complicated paperwork and tight deadlines
• Advising you and protecting your rights
• Deposing witnesses, doctors, and others as needed
• Fighting for maximum compensation on your behalf

Did you, or a loved one, need surgery because of an infection caused by a Bair Hugger? Get a free case evaluation with no obligation. Speak to a member of our time right now at 1-866-900-7078.

The Law Offices of James Scott Farrin consults with a national network of attorneys on product liability, defective drugs, and defective products cases in an attempt to provide the best representation we can for our clients. Depending on the details of your case, our firm will likely refer your matter to another law firm with which we associate. We will only do this if we believe it is in your best interests and if you agree.