Guidant
Pulsar Pacemaker
On July 19, 2005, Guidant Corporation recalled medical devices, including the Pulsar artificial pacemaker, due to a potentially fatal defect in some models. A hermetic seal designed to protect the sensitive electronics may allow moisture into the device causing it to fail. Pulsar pacemakers belong to the group of 78,000 other devices made by Guidant that may potentially malfunction due to this flaw, with 18,000 still in use in the United States. There have already been 69 failures of these devices, with one fatality thought to be associated with the malfunction. These are the Pulsar models affected:
- Guidant Pulsar 0470
- Guidant Pulsar 0870
- Guidant Pulsar 0970
- Guidant Pulsar 0972
- Guidant Pulsar 1172
- Guidant Pulsar 1272
Common signs of pacemaker failure include shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness or a prolonged fast heart rate. Although Guidant does not mandate a recall of these devices, it advises doctors to asses the individual needs of their patients to provide adequate treatment.
If you or someone you love uses the Pulsar artificial pacemaker, contact your doctor immediately. Your life could be at risk. Once you have protected your health, take action against irresponsible companies that put their profits ahead of your safety. We want to help you fight for what you deserve, so contact us today.
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