Miami Defective Aortic Stent and Stent-Graft Lawyer

What can go wrong with an aortic stent-graft

A stent-graft failure can take several forms, and the type of failure often determines the risk to the patient.

• Endoleak, when blood continues flowing into the aneurysm sac
• Device migration from its intended position
• Stent fracture or graft fabric tear
• Component separation or graft collapse
• Kinking or occlusion that blocks blood flow
• Infection involving the implanted graft
• Continued aneurysm sac enlargement
• Aortic rupture

A Type III endoleak, caused by a structural defect such as a fabric tear or component separation, can raise pressure inside the aneurysm sac and increase the risk of rupture. A recall or reported complication does not automatically mean a device was defective.

Recalled aortic stents and stent-grafts

Certain products have been the subject of FDA recalls or safety communications. A recall does not mean every device caused an injury, but it may be relevant to a patient's claim.

• Medtronic Valiant Navion Thoracic Stent Graft, Class I recall in 2021, involving Type IIIb endoleaks, stent fractures, and stent-ring enlargement
• Endologix AFX Endovascular AAA System, Class I recall in 2018, involving Type III endoleak concerns and updated surveillance guidance
• GORE EXCLUDER AAA and Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis, Class II recalls in 2020, involving leading-end catheter component separation
• Medtronic Endurant, Endurant II, and Endurant IIs systems, Class II recalls in 2021 and 2022, involving delivery-system component and marker-bond issues

FDA recall records can change over time, and this list does not include every device or recall action involving aortic stents and stent-grafts.

Signs that may require medical attention

Symptoms after an aortic stent-graft procedure can develop gradually or appear without warning.

• Sudden or severe abdominal or back pain
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
• Leg pain or cold, numb extremities
• Fever or other signs of infection
• Unexplained swelling
• New or worsening symptoms after the procedure

A suspected aortic rupture is a medical emergency. Ongoing imaging matters because complications such as migration or fracture can develop years after implantation.

What you can recover after an aortic stent-graft injury

Patients harmed by a defective aortic stent-graft may be entitled to compensation for the following.

• Medical expenses, including revision surgery
• Present and future cost of medical care
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Physical impairment and disfigurement
• Emotional distress

If aortic stent-graft complications contributed to a loved one's death, a wrongful death claim may also recover funeral expenses and medical costs incurred before death.