Bronchoscopes and Medical Malpractice Claims

A bronchoscope is a medical tool consisting of a tube equipped with a camera, used by doctors to diagnose lung cancer and other lung infections. Bronchoscopy procedures are very common in the United States. However, thousands of bronchoscopes have been recalled by manufacturers, and people who have suffered injuries as a result of a bronchoscopy procedure may seek damages.

What is a Bronchoscopy Procedure?

A bronchoscope is usually inserted into the nose or mouth and then into the lungs. In addition to viewing the inside of the lungs with the aid of the attached camera, doctors are also able to take biopsies and other samples of lung discharge for testing.

Injuries Caused by Bronchoscope

Certain brands of bronchoscopes have been linked to injuries in patients who have undergone bronchoscopy procedures. In fact, one manufacturer voluntarily recalled 15 of its bronchoscope models after suspecting that these bronchoscopes carried and spread bacteria among patients who have undergone bronchoscope procedures. Some of the symptoms of infection include: fever, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Bronchoscope Lawsuits

Studies have determined that one bronchoscope in particular was designed defectively, causing bacteria to go undetected and making sterilization difficult if not impossible. As a result, patients have suffered bacteria-related infections, sometimes resulting in death. Because of this, patients who have undergone bronchoscopy procedures and have suffered bronchoscope-related infections may have a valid claim against the manufacturer for negligent design.