Recent studies have identified that the Philips DreamStation and similar CPAP, BiPap, and ventilator units have been using a defective sound abatement foam since 2009. This research has shown that the degradation of this foam can lead to a variety of negative health side effects in Philips device users.
What Is a Philips CPAP Device?
CPAP is an acronym that stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. Originally designed in 1980, CPAP devices are designed to assist those who suffer from sleep apnea. Utilizing a steady flow of oxygen to the nose and mouth of the user, a CPAP machine keeps airways open and prevents the disruption of normal breathing.
These CPAP machines differ from Bi-PAP machines, which have dual pressure settings, and ventilators, which define a wider range of assisted breathing devices.
For a free legal consultation with a Philips DreamStation CPAP lawyer serving Birmingham, call 800-537-8185
Has There Been a Recall on any Philips CPAP Devices?
Yes. In June of 2021, Philips recalled certain CPAP, BiPAP, and Respironics ventilator machines. Additionally, the FDA has issued a safety communication with additional information about the recall.
What Kinds of Issues do the Philip CPAP Devices Cause?
Individual cases can vary, but many patients with Philips CPAP devices have a range of potential risks due to foam degradation. Swallowing of PE-PUR foam presents a range of possible health issues. Additionally, “outgassing” or the release of toxic gasses due to foam deterioration can cause many other issues if inhaled. Examples of health issues tied to outgassing are:
- Various cancers
- Respiratory distress or failure
- Heart attack
- Chemical burns
- Brain damage
- Cellular damage to DNA
What Kind of Cancers Is Polyurethane Foam Outgassing Associated with?
Unfortunately, there is quite a large range of potential cancers that can occur due to the inhalation of Polyurethan gasses released due to foam degradation. These include:
- Stomach Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Acute Respiratory Distress System (ARDS)
- Bladder Cancer
- Brain Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Hematopoietic Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Leukemia
- Liver Cancer
- Liver Damage
- Lung Cancer
- Rectal Cancer
- Lymphatic Cancer
- Multiple Myeloma
- Nasal Cancer
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Papillary Carcinoma
- Prostate Cancer
How Many Philips Devices Have Been Recalled?
It is now estimated that somewhere between 2 million to 3 million Philips CPAP, Bi-PAP, and ventilation devices have been recalled. Nearly two-thirds of these devices are estimated to have been sold in the United States alone.
Below is a list of CPAP, Bi-PAP, and ventilator devices already recalled.
Have You Used a Philips CPAP, BiPAP, or Ventilation Device?
Patients who have been in contact with a Philips CPAP or BiPAP device have been advised to immediately discontinue use and consult with their doctor regarding alternatives. In cases of life-sustaining devices, patients should first consult with their physician regarding the risks and next steps before discontinuing use.
If you or a loved one has experienced complications after the use of a Philips CPAP, BiPAP, or another ventilator, you might be eligible to file a claim for medical costs, emotional distress, and further damages. As more and more negative health side effects of these devices are emerging, we recommend speaking to an experienced Philips CPAP attorney. To learn more, fill out our free case evaluation form or call us at (800)537-8185 for your free consultation. The experienced mass tort attorneys at Morris Bart can assist you in the evaluation process. Click here to see more about our office locations throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas. Contact us today!
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
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