Heart Valve Failure Risk
The Abbott Trifecta Valve uses bovine tissue to replace damaged aortic valves in heart patients. Introduced in 2011, these valves were marketed as durable devices with a 15-20 year lifespan, making them an attractive option for patients needing valve replacement.
Medical evidence now shows these valves failing at alarming rates, often within just 3-5 years after implantation. This premature deterioration puts patients at significant risk and sometimes requires additional high-risk surgeries.
Research published in JAMA Cardiology found Trifecta valves had a three-fold higher risk of structural deterioration compared to similar products. Studies in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery documented concerning rates of leaflet tears and calcification.
When these valves fail, patients experience symptoms including shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats. Many require emergency revision surgery, a procedure with mortality rates significantly higher than the initial operation.
Despite mounting evidence of problems, Abbott allegedly delayed warning patients and physicians about these risks until February 2023, potentially endangering thousands of patients nationwide.
Serious Valve Complications
Patients with Abbott Trifecta heart valves have reported numerous severe complications. Understanding these risks is essential when considering legal action with our Abbott Trifecta valve attorneys.
Despite promises of 15-20 years performance, many valves fail within 3-5 years, requiring dangerous replacement surgery.
Valve leaflets often tear prematurely, causing blood flow restriction and forcing the heart to overwork.
Failed valves permit regurgitation, causing fatigue, breathing problems, and cardiac complications requiring intervention.
Failed valves require additional surgeries with mortality rates up to five times higher than initial procedures.
Some patients have suffered death, stroke, heart attack, or permanent cardiac damage from these defective devices.
The Abbott Trifecta valve lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices understand these complications’ devastating impact. We’re committed to helping victims secure compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and suffering.
Legal Claim Foundations
Patients harmed by Abbott Trifecta valves have several strong legal arguments for seeking compensation. Our Abbott Trifecta valve attorneys can help determine if filing a claim is right for your situation.
Evidence suggests fundamental design flaws in Trifecta valves creating strong liability claims against the manufacturer.
Abbott allegedly knew about deterioration risks but failed to properly warn doctors and patients.
Abbott promoted 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 attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices understand complex medical device litigation. Our team helps patients document their injuries and build compelling legal claims before time limitations expire.
Eligibility Requirements
If you or a loved one received an Abbott Trifecta heart valve and experienced complications, you may qualify for compensation. Our medical device attorneys are evaluating cases meeting these criteria:
Qualification factors:
- Received an Abbott Trifecta valve between 2011 and February 17, 2023
- Specific 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 gather:
- 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.
Patient Action Steps
If you have an Abbott Trifecta heart valve, taking prompt action is essential to protect your health and legal rights. Follow these important steps if you believe you’re affected by this defective medical device.
Schedule immediate evaluation. Request comprehensive valve assessment, even without obvious symptoms.
Secure complete records including surgical notes with valve model information and follow-up care.
Monitor for breathing difficulties, chest pain, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat. Seek immediate care if symptoms appear.
Track all medical costs, medications, travel expenses, missed work, and quality-of-life impacts.
Time limitations restrict how long you have to file a claim. The Abbott Trifecta valve lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices can quickly determine if you qualify for compensation through our simple case evaluation process.
Free Evaluation
Affected by a failed Abbott Trifecta valve? Our Abbott Trifecta valve attorneys can fight for the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, pain, and financial losses. Don’t delay checking your eligibility.
