Peterson Law Firm

Yaz & Yasmin Lawsuit | UPDATE

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 15:19:00 +0000

On December 8, 2011, the FDA convened to review the conflicting data of numerous studies evaluating the risk of venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) associated with Yasmin®, Yaz®, and other combined oral contraceptives (COCs) that contain drospirenone (DRSP) as the progestin component. The FDA’s expert panel voted 21 to 5 that the current US labels for Bayer’s DRSP containing COCs are currently inadequate and need more information concerning the increased risk of blood clots compared to older contraceptive pills. The FDA’s own study found a 75% increase in the risk of blood clots in women using Bayer’s line of DRSP contraceptives.

^Yasmin^®^{Serious Side Effects | Yasmin}^®^Lawsuit

Yaz®, and Yasmin®, have been linked to serious side effects including:

Blood Clots, Pulmonary Embolism,

Deep Vein Thrombosis, Stroke, Heart Attack, Liver

Tumors, Breast Cancer or Death

If you have suffered any of these or other injuries as a result of Yaz® or Yasmin® birth control, you are eligible to seek compensation.

The national law firm of Peterson & Associates, P.C. has successfully resolved thousands of cases involving pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers.

Depuy Hip Recall : Informational Video

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:30:00 +0000

Prescription Drugs & Birth Defects

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:06:00 +0000

Prescription Drugs & Birth Defects

Antidepressants & Anti-Seizure medications such as Topamax, Depokote, Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro, and others, have been associated with a higher risk of Birth Defects if taken during pregnancy.

These drugs have been linked to birth defects such as cardiac defects, persistant pulmonary hypertension in newborns (PPHN) neural tub defects, craniosynonstosis, anal atresia, cleft lip, cleft palate, and limb malformations.

If your child was born with a Birth Defect, an Antidepressant or Anti-Seizure Medication such as Topamax or Depokote may be to blame.
Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >

Antidepressants & Birth Defects

A study done at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in September 2007, researchers found that out of 500,000 pregnant woman, fifty percent were unaware that the drugs they were taking put their baby at risk for birth defects.

SSRI Antidepressants such as Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, and Lexapro have been linked to cases of serious congenital birth defects and many of the mothers taking the drug received inadequate warning during their pregnancy.

SSRI antidepressants have been linked to birth defects such as cardiac defects, persistant pulmonary hypertension in newborns (PPHN) neural tub defects, craniosynonstosis, anal atresia, cleft lip, cleft palate, and limb malformations. Researchers have found that pregnant women who took an SSRI after the 20th week of conception were six times more likely to give birth to a baby with PPHN. A 2008 study found a strong association between the drug Paxil and heart defects.

Topamax

In March 2011, the FDA issued a warning that pregnant women who took the epilepsy and migraine drug, Topamax, were at a higher risk of giving birth to a baby with a cleft palate or cleft lip. In addition, the FDA upgraded Topamax from a Pregnancy Category C drug to a Pregnancy Category D, meaning that there is clear evidence of the risk of birth defects to human fetus.

In addition to these risks, pregnant women who take the drug Topamax are also more likely to give birth to a baby with heart defects, limb malformations, craniofacial defects, and persistent pulmonary hypertension in newborns. (PPHN)

Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >

Depakote

Depakote, manufactured by Abbot Laboratories, was put on the market in 1983. The drug is an anti-epileptic used to treat seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraines. The drug is listed as a Pregnancy Category D drug and has a 4-fod increase in serious birth defects compared to other anti-convulsive drugs. This includes Spina Bifida, Heart Defects, Craniofacial Defects, Cleft Palate, Cleft Lip, and Limb Malformations.

In 2006, Abbott Laboratories added a black box warning about the risks of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. In May 2010, researchers found that the birth defects from Depakote occur as early as the first trimester, before most women even know that they are pregnant.

Unfortunately, Depakote has been used by many pregnant women, resulting in devastating birth defects and malformations.

Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >

Craniofacial Defect | Birth Defect from Prescription Drug

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:15:00 +0000

Craniofacial Defect | Birth Defect

In recent studies, researches have discovered that the use of prescription drugs such as Antidepressants & Anti-Seizure medications taken during pregnancy may cause Craniofacial Defect and other birth defects. Fifty percent of the women taking the medications were not notified that the drugs they were taking put their baby at risk for birth defects.

If your child was born with a Craniofacial Defect or other birth defect, a medication such as Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro, Topamax or Depokote may be to blame.

Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >

About Craniofacial Defect

Premature closure of growth plates in the skull cause abnormal growth patterns of the face and skull. The altered growth results in an abnormal head shape. The actual shape of an affected infant's head depends on which growth plates closed prematurely.

An infant's skull is made up of a collection of separate bones. The spaces between these bones are called sutures. The brain grows rapidly in an infant. In order to make room for the growing brain, the skull also grows rapidly. Growth of the skull takes place at the sutures. Premature fusion or closure of these sutures is called craniosynostosis. In a child with craniosynostosis, the brain continues to grow. However, the skull will not grow where the suture is closed. Compensatory growth occurs at adjacent sutures, resulting in an abnormal head shape.

The most common of the synostoses are the following:

* Sagittal Synostosis (scaphocephaly) - skull is long and narrow.

* Metopic Synostosis (trigonocephaly) - pointed forehead.

* Coronal Synostosis (plagiocephaly) - one side of the forehead is flattened.

* Bicoronal Synostosis (brachycephaly) - broad, flattened forehead.

* Lambdoid Synostosis (occipital plagiocephaly) - back of skull is flattened.

There is a distinctive head shape associated with the premature closing of each suture. Since most head growth occurs within the first year of life, the synostosis is usually diagnosed and treated early in life. Often times, the diagnosis of craniosynostosis is easily made by physical examination alone. Sometimes, plain skull films or a CT scan may be helpful.

Some infants may have a premature closing of more than one suture. Infants with more than one suture involved may have a genetic syndrome. Examples of these include Crouzon, Apert or Pfeiffer syndromes. Infants with a genetic syndrome may have other anomalies as well. Therefore, treatment at a facility with a comprehensive team approach is necessary. These children require a multidisciplinary team of specialists for the management of their care.

An abnormal head shape may also result from a positioning deformity. Due to confinement during pregnancy or tightness of neck muscles, the infant sleeps with its head always turned to the same side. These babies present with a flattening of the back of their skull on the side on which they sleep. These infants also may have a bulging forehead and a forward displacement of the ear on the same side as the flattening, and bulging on the opposite side of the back of the head. The vast majority of these infants do not have a true synostosis, but rather a functional lambdoid synostosis. The treatment for these particular infants often does not involve surgery. Usually, vigorous repositioning techniques to keep the infant off the flat spot is often recommended. However, if physical examination reveals that the infant's neck muscles are tight, an assessment by a Physical Medicine physician may be beneficial. These doctors may be able to recommend some neck stretching exercises. Occasionally, a molding device or helmet may be employed. At Mayo Clinic, all of these treatment options are available and discussed on an individual basis.In the womb, the pathway of your baby's blood circulation is different than it is after birth.

Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >

Avandia Heart Damage Lawsuits

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 23:32:00 +0000

ABOUT AVANDIA®

Peterson & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to help patients who have suffered heart damage associated with the use of Avandia®. If you or someone you know has suffered from Avandia, please contact us by clicking here or calling 877-378-4442 for a FREE Case Review.

In Sept. 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it will significantly restrict the use of the diabetes drug Avandia (rosiglitazone) to patients with Type 2 diabetes who cannot control their diabetes on other medications. These new restrictions are in response to data that suggest an elevated risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, in patients treated with Avandia.

Read more information about Avandia at our Avandia Lawsuit Information Page.

In 2007, the FDA issued a Black Box Warning that Avandia® could potentially increase the risk of damage to a patients' heart. According to the FDA alert, "Safety data from controlled clinical trials have shown that there is a potentially significant increase in the risk of heart attack and heart related deaths in patients taking Avandia®." The Black Box warning is the highest level of alert and suggests a significant risk of serious or life threatening side effects.

The American Heart Association reports that people with moderate or severe congestive heart failure should not use these glucose lowering drugs. The study concluded that diabetics who have mild heart disease or any problems with their kidneys could be at a greater risk of developing congestive heart failure if they take Avandia®.

At Peterson & Associate, P.C. we are determined to get justice for the victims of Avandia® and to seek compensation for their suffering.

Read more information about Avandia at our Avandia Lawsuit Information Page.

Side Effects:

Heart Attack

Stroke

Congestive Heart Failure

Cardiovascular Heart Disease

Other Heart Injuries

If you or someone you know has suffered from Avandia®, please contact us immediately by clicking here or calling 877-378-4442 for a FREE Case Review.

FREE CASE EVALUATION

Avandia Warnings | NY Times News Article

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 13:27:00 +0000

The following is an excerpt from The N.Y. Times article on September 23, 2010
N.Y. Times, September 23rd, 2010
By GARDINER HARRIS

"In a highly unusual coordinated announcement, drug regulators in Europe and the United States said Thursday that Avandia, the controversial diabetes medicine, would no longer be widely available....
...One study estimated that from 1999 to 2009, more than 47,000 people taking Avandia needlessly suffered a heart attack, stroke or heart failure, or died."
N.Y. Times, Sept. 23rd, 2010

"Peterson & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to help patients who have suffered heart damage, liver failure and death associated with the use of Avandia®. If you or someone you know has suffered from Avandia, please contact us by calling 877-378-4442 or click here for a FREE Avandia Legal Case Review.

Trucking Accident Lawsuit Questions: How Long Does it take?

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:40:00 +0000

Like all law cases, every single semi truck accident lawsuit is different. It can depend on many factors, including the following :

How serious are the injuries sustained from the semi truck wreck?
How many defendants are involved?
How many witnesses are involved?
Does the semi truck company have a large experienced legal staff?

Peterson & Associates, P.C. have experienced semi truck accident lawyers that can protect you from powerful trucking companies' legal staff.

Peterson & Associates, P.C. fights hard to pull out all the stops to try and cut back on truck accidents. Get immediate legal assistance by calling 877-378-4442 or clicking here for a FREE Semi Truck Accident Legal Case Evaluation.

Nursing Home Neglect Lawsuits | Insuffiecient Staffing | Nursing Home Lawyer

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:18:00 +0000

91% of Nursing Homes have Insufficient Staffing

According to the most recent federal study by the Health Care Financing Association, more than 91 percent of the nursing homes in the United States have insufficient nurse aid staffing levels to provide the necessary care to nursing home residents. In addition, more than 40 percent of all nursing homes would have to increase nurse aid staff by 50 percent or more to reach the minimum threshold necessary to meet the residents' needs.

Nursing home negligence typically includes the failure to provide basic necessities such as water, protection from health and safety hazards and general appropriate care. Negligence can result in injuries such as falls, broken hips, bed sores, malnutrition, dehydration, improper wound care and other injuries which may result in severe medical complications and even death.

Yaz Birth Control Warnings | Yasmin Birth Control Warnings | Birth Control Lawsuit

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:16:00 +0000

Breaking News from FDA about Yaz & Yasmin!

On December 8, 2011, the FDA convened to review the conflicting data of numerous studies evaluating the risk of venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) associated with Yasmin, Yaz, and other combined oral contraceptives (COCs) that contain drospirenone (DRSP) as the progestin component.

The FDA’s expert panel voted 21 to 5 that the current US labels for Bayer’s DRSP containing COCs are currently inadequate and need more information concerning the increased risk of blood clots compared to older contraceptive pills. The FDA’s own study found a 75% increase in the risk of blood clots in women using Bayer’s line of DRSP contraceptives.

Contact Us for a FREE Case Evaluation if you have suffered from Yaz or Yasmin>>

Facts about the Depuy Hip Recall

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:32:00 +0000

About the DePuy ASRTM

The DePuy ASR™ Hip Replacement devices are metal-on-metal hip replacement systems. The natural hip joint is like a ball that fits in a socket. The socket portion of the hip is called the acetabulum. The femoral head at the top of the thigh bone (femur) rotates within the curved surface of the acetabulum. According to DePuy, the recalled hip DePuy ASR™ hip implants utilize a one-piece acetabular cup, which is a metal liner that replaces the acetabulum. With the recalled DePuy ASR XL Total Hip Replacement System, there are three components—1). The femoral stem is inserted inside the femur 2). The femoral head (or ball) connects to the stem, and 3). The stem then fits inside the acetabulum.

The second recalled ASR hip device—the DePuy ASR Hip Resurfacing System—utilizes two components: 1). A cap is placed over the natural femoral head and 2). The acetabulum is replaced with the one-piece cup.

Get answers to your DePuy Hip Implant Lawsuit questions >>

Avandia Lawsuit Info | Avandia Lawyer | Avandia Side Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:02:00 +0000

Our team of Avandia Attorneys work with families of those who have been victims of Avandia Side Effects and have suffered heart related injuries or side effects from taking the Avandia. If the manufacturer of Avandia withheld information about the safety of this drug, they should be held accountable for any harm that they have caused, and the people that have suffered from Avandia should be treated fairly.

If you or a loved has experienced Avandia Side Effects or complications, you may have a legal claim. Please contact us toll free at 1-877-378-4442 for a free, no obligation consultation. You may have a valid claim, but you must file your suit before any statute of limitations runs. Statue of limitations are time limits that determine how long you have to file a case. If you do not file your case in time, you may be barred forever from making an Avandia claim or receiving any
compensation.

Peterson & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to help patients who have suffered heart damage, liver failure and death associated with the use of Avandia®. If you or someone you know has suffered from Avandia, please contact us by calling 877-378-4442 or click here for a FREE Avandia Legal Case Review.

About Actos Lawsuits | Bladder Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 15:25:00 +0000

About Actos®

Actos, a diabetes prescription drug. Pioglitazone, the generic name for Actos has been sold under the trade names Actos, ActoplusMet, Competact and Duetact.

Actos has been shown by recent studies to potentially cause an increased risk of bladder cancer.

Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Actos® Bladder Cancer Legal Consultation >>

Actos® Side Effects

Actos (generic pioglitazone hydrochloride) is a prescription drug used for treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Recent studies have revealed that Actos patients may face an increased rick of bladder cancer from the extended use of Actos.

Actos Side Effects & Symptoms of Bladder Cancer :

-Frequent Urination

-Blood in Urine

-Pain During Urination

-Feeling of Need to Urinate

If you or a loved one has taken Actos® and have symptoms of or have been diagnosed with Bladder Cancer, Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Actos Bladder Cancer Legal Review >>

Actos® Bladder Cancer Lawsuit Information

Recently a 10 year study revealed that diabetes patients who took Actos® for an extended period of time may be at risk for developing Bladder Cancer.

In September 2010, the FDA announced that makers of Actos®, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, provided data after five years of the study that suggests there may be a risk of bladder cancer from Actos®. According to the study, if a patient has taken Actos® for more than 24 months, they may be at an increased risk of Bladder Cancer from Actos® side effects.

It appears that this information about the potential risk of Actos® cancer problems has been known to Takeda, manufacturer of Actos®, for a period of time, warnings were provided to consumers and the medical community. Some experts believe that recall should be issued or that new warnings about the risk of bladder cancer from Actos® should be added to the medication.

If you or a loved one has taken Actos® and have symptoms of or have been diagnosed with Bladder Cancer, Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Actos Bladder Cancer Legal Review >>

Actos® was recently withdrawn from the market in France and Germany due to its association with bladder tumors. Due to these and other serious side effects, the FDA recently announced a link between Actos® and an increased incidence of bladder cancer.

If you or a loved one has taken Actos® and have symptoms of or have been diagnosed with Bladder Cancer, Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Actos Bladder Cancer Legal Review >

Prescription Drugs & Birth Defects

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:17:00 +0000

Prescription Drugs & Birth Defects

Antidepressants & Anti-Seizure medications such as Topamax, Depokote, Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro, and others, have been associated with a higher risk of Birth Defects if taken during pregnancy.

If your child was born with a Birth Defect, an Antidepressant or Anti-Seizure Medication such as Topamax or Depokote may be to blaim.
Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >

Avandia Lawsuit Information

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:59:00 +0000

AVANDIA® Lawsuit Information
Avandia has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack, liver failure and death. Read about Avandia Side Effects >>

Peterson & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to help patients who have suffered heart damage, liver failure and death associated with the use of Avandia®. If you or someone you know has suffered from Avandia, please contact us by calling 877-378-4442 or click here for a FREE Avandia Legal Case Review.

Avandia Side Effects:

Heart Attack
Stroke
Congestive Heart Failure
Cardiovascular Heart Disease
Other Heart Injuries

If you or someone you know has suffered from Avandia®, please contact us immediately by calling 877-378-4442 or visit FREE Avandia Legal Case Review.

Attorney Profile : L Benjamin Mook

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:55:00 +0000

L. Benjamin Mook attended the University of Missouri-Rolla, where he earned a degree in Geological Engineering. After graduating from college, Mr. Mook worked for an engineering consulting firm in Jefferson City, Missouri, where he focused on landfill design and construction oversight and hazardous waste remediation. In 1997 Mr. Mook enrolled in law school at the University of Missouri-Columbia, and during his first year of law school continued to work part-time performing construction oversight on a superfund site in southeast Missouri. Mr. Mook was Associate Managing Editor of the Missouri Law Review, was inducted into the Order of the Barristers, and was a recipient of the Roscoe Anderson Award for Excellence in Advocacy. After graduating from law school in 2000, Mr. Mook joined Shook, Hardy & Bacon in Kansas City, Missouri, where he defended propane manufacturers in litigation nationwide, and practiced in the areas of business litigation, reinsurance, and construction litigation.

In February 2004, Mr. Mook left Shook, Hardy & Bacon to join his wife, Amanda, in establishing Mook & Mook, P.C., which opened for business in late April 2004. While at Mook & Mook, Mr. Mook represented people injured by defective products, healthcare provider and hospital negligence, and workplace accidents, was involved in business fraud litigation and litigation with insurance companies regarding coverage. Mr. Mook joined Peterson & Associates in April 2011. Mr. Mook’s practice focuses on plaintiffs' personal injury including medical malpractice, products liability, nursing home litigation, truck and other motor vehicle accidents, and class actions. Mr. Mook’s practice includes jury trials in state and federal court in Missouri and beyond.

Mr. Mook is a member of the Missouri Bar Association and is licensed to practice in the United States District Court of the Western District of Missouri. Mr. Mook is also a Member of the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys, the Clay County Bar Association, and the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association.

Yaz & Yasmin FDA Information Update!

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:58:00 +0000

Yaz, Yasmin & Nuva Ring Lawsuit Information - Peterson & Associates, P.C. Call 877-DRUG-GIANT for a FREE Yaz & Yasmin Legal Case Review!

Yaz Blood Clot Risk Lawsuit | Yaz Blood Clot Lawyer

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:46:00 +0000

FDA says Yaz Appears to Increase Blood Clot Risk

A new study released by the Food and Drug Administration reviewed the medical history of more than 800,000 U.S. women taking different forms of birth control between 2001 and 2007. Woman taking Yaz had a 75 percent greater chance of experiencing a blood clot than women taking older birth control drugs, on average.

Bayer Healthcare, a division of the German conglomerate, said it “is currently evaluating this publication and cannot comment at this point in time.”

If you or a loved one has taken Yaz and has experienced a Blood Clot, contact Peterson & Associates, P.C., for a Free Case Evaluation. Click Here >>

Paxil & Birth Defects | Paxil Linked to Birth Defects

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:31:00 +0000

In recent studies, researches have discovered that the use of Antidepressants medications such as Paxil taken during pregnancy may potentially increase the risk of severe birth defects such as cardiac defects, persistant pulmonary hypertension in newborns (PPHN) neural tub defects, craniosynonstosis, anal atresia, cleft lip, cleft palate, and limb malformations. Fifty percent of the women taking the medications were not notified that the drugs they were taking put their baby at risk for birth defects.

Other drugs that are linked to birth defects are :

Topamax®

Depakote®

Zoloft®

Celexa®

Lexapro®

If your child was born with a Cleft Lip or other birth defect, a medication such as Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro, Topamax or Depokote may be to blame.

Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >>

Depuy Hip Recall Information

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:28:00 +0000

DePuy ASR Hip Recall Lawsuit

DePuy ASR™ Hip Replacement has been recalled. Read more information about DePuy Hip Replacements below. Please contact us to see if you might have a case.

DePuy ASRTM Recalled!

Recently, DePuy Orthopedics, Inc. (the orthopedic arm of Johnson & Johnson) issued a global recall of two of its hip implant devices--the ASR™XL Acetabular System and the ASR™ Hip Resurfacing System. This recall of DePuy Hip Replacements follows a New York Times article on March 10, 2010, which revealed that DePuy Orthopedics, Inc. had halted sales and issued an urgent safety notice for its DePuy ASR™ Hip device systems. Recently, the FDA issued a warning letter to DePuy for selling the DePuy ASR™ Hip Replacement and other joint products without the agency’s approval. DePuy sold around 93,000 of the DePuy Hip Replacement units.

DePuy Hip Implant Lawyer

If you or someone you know has been implanted with a DePuy ASR™ Hip Replacement System or you have undergone or are scheduled to undergo a revision surgery of the DePuy ASR™ Hip Replacement, you may be entitled to compensation. For a free consultation, contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. by clicking here or by calling toll-free 1-877-378-4442.

Get answers to your DePuy Hip Implant Lawsuit questions >

About the DePuy ASRTM

Get answers to your DePuy Hip Implant Lawsuit questions >

Defective Medical Device Lawsuits

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:14:00 +0000

Defective Medical Devices

Medical devices such as pacemakers and prosthetics are commonly used to improve a patient’s quality of life or well-being. They are meant to help healthcare professionals diagnose, supervise, and treat medical conditions. All medical devices must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assess their safety, effectiveness and quality before being sold to the public.

When a medical device does not work as promised, the effects can be damaging and extensive. A medical device that is defective or unsafe can cause serious injury or even death. A defect can result from many things including faulty design and poor manufacturing quality. In fact, the FDA may recall a defective device in an effort to protect the public.
The chain of events that leads to the use of a particular medical device for a patient usually involves a number of parties. Consequently, it can be difficult to determine exactly who is responsible for an injury. The doctor that prescribed the device may be liable if he or she knew that the device was risky and did not plainly explain the risks to the patient. The hospital, the distributor or the seller that provided the device may be liable.
Most often, it is the manufacturer that is held liable on the basis of defects, inadequate warnings or misleading marketing. Medical device manufacturers have a legal responsibility to make their devices safe, to meet FDA standards and to warn of any risks or side effects involved in using the device. Patients have a right to know the risks associated with a particular medical device so that they (and their doctors) can make informed healthcare decisions.
Depending on the state where the injury occurred, compensation for the following damages may be recovered:
• Emotional distress
• Loss of employment
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of past and future earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Past and future medical expenses

If you or a loved one has been injured by a medical device, you may be able to collect monetary compensation for your injury. The attorneys at Peterson & Associates can help you ascertain who is responsible for your injury and help you assess the loss you have suffered. Please don’t hesitate to contact the law offices of Peterson & Associates. Our experienced attorneys can be reached for a free consultation by calling 816-LAW-FIRM, or by clicking here to submit online.

Depuy Hip Recall Informational Video

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:10:00 +0000

Peterson & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to help patients who have suffered injury from the use of Depuy Hip Replacements. If you or someone you know has suffered from Depuy Hip Implants, please contact us by calling 877-378-4442 or click here for a FREE Depuy Implant Legal Case Review.

Avandia Side Effects Lawsuit | Avandia Lawyer

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 15:23:00 +0000

Avandia® Lawsuit : Avandia Side Effects

Problems with Avandia range from mild to severe cases including heart failure, heart attack and death. Issues with Avandia have lead to the FDA's stronger warning congestive heart failure and heart attacks, but many medical experts say that Avandia is unreasonably dangerous and should be recalled.

Avandia Side Effects

Peterson & Associates, P.C. are taking cases for victims of Avandia side effects. If you have suffered from the following side effects contact us for an immediate Free Avandia Legal Case Evaluation.

• Heart Attack

• Stroke

• Liver Failure

• Heart Failure

• Bone Fracture

• Vision Loss or Blindness

• Death

Spina Bifida | Spina Bifida & Presciption Drug Lawsuits

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:33:00 +0000

About Spina Bifida

Normally, during the first month of a pregnancy, the two sides of the spine (or backbone) join together to cover the spinal cord, spinal nerves and meninges (the tissues covering the spinal cord). Spina bifida refers to any birth defect involving incomplete closure of the spine.

Myelomeningocele is the most common type of spina bifida. It is a neural tube defect in which the bones of the spine do not completely form, resulting in an incomplete spinal canal. This causes the spinal cord and meninges (the tissues covering the spinal cord) to stick out of the child's back.

The rest of spina bifida cases are most commonly:

• Spina bifida occulta, a condition in which the bones of the spine do not close but the spinal cord and meninges remain in place and skin usually covers the defect

• Meningoceles, a condition where the tissue covering the spinal cord sticks out of the spinal defect but the spinal cord remains in place.

Other congenital disorders or birth defects may also be present in a child with myelomeningocele. Hydrocephalus may affect as many as 90% of children with myelomeningocele. Other disorders of the spinal cord or musculoskeletal system may be seen, including syringomyelia and hip dislocation.

Also, if a child is born with myelomeningocele, future children in that family have a higher risk than the general population. However, in many cases, there is no family connection.

Some theorize that a virus make play a role, since there is a higher rate of this condition in children born in the early winter months. Research also indicates possible environmental factors such as radiation.

Symptoms

A newborn may have a sac sticking out of the mid to lower back. The doctor cannot see through the sac when shining a light behind it. Symptoms include:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Partial or complete lack of sensation

• Partial or complete paralysis of the legs

• Weakness of the hips, legs, or feet of a newborn

Other symptoms may include:

• Abnormal feet or legs, such as clubfoot

• Build up of fluid inside the skull (hydrocephalus)

• Hair at the back part of the pelvis called the sacral area

• Dimpling of the sacral area

Treatment

Genetic counseling may be recommended. In some cases where severe defect is detected early in the pregnancy, a therapeutic abortion may be considered.

After birth, surgery to repair the defect is usually recommended at an early age. Before surgery, the infant must be handled carefully to reduce damage to the exposed spinal cord. This may include special care and positioning, protective devices, and changes in the methods of handling, feeding, and bathing.

Children who also have hydrocephalus may need a ventricular peritoneal shunt placed. This will help drain the extra fluid.

Antibiotics may be used to treat or prevent infections such as meningitis or urinary tract infections.

Most children will require lifelong treatment for problems that result from damage to the spinal cord and spinal nerves. This includes:

• Gentle downward pressure over the bladder may help drain the bladder. In severe cases, drainage tubes, called catheters, may be needed. Bowel training programs and a high fiber diet may improve bowel function.

• Orthopedic or physical therapy may be needed to treat musculoskeletal symptoms. Braces may be needed for muscle and joint problems.

• Neurological losses are treated according to the type and severity of function loss.

Follow-up examinations generally continue throughout the child's life. These are done to check the child's developmental level and to treat any intellectual, neurological, or physical problems.

Visiting nurses, social services, support groups, and local agencies can provide emotional support and assist with the care of a child with a myelomeningocele who has significant problems or limitations.

Complications

• Difficult delivery with problems resulting from a traumatic birth, including cerebral palsy and decreased oxygen to the brain

• Frequent urinary tract infections

• Hydrocephalus

• Loss of bowel or bladder control

• Meningitis

• Permanent weakness or paralysis of legs

This list may not be all inclusive.

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Paxil Birth Defect Lawsuit

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:26:00 +0000

Paxil® & Birth Defects

If your child was born with a Cleft Lip or other birth defect, a medication such as Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro, Topamax or Depokote may be to blame.

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Antidepressants May Cause Birth Defects...

In a study done at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in September 2007, researchers found that out of 500,000 pregnant woman, fifty percent were unaware that the drugs they were taking put their baby at risk for birth defects.

SSRI Antidepressants such as Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, and Lexapro have been linked to cases of serious congenital birth defects and many of the mothers taking the drug received inadequate warning during their pregnancy.

SSRI antidepressants have been linked to birth defects such as cardiac defects, persistant pulmonary hypertension in newborns (PPHN) neural tub defects, craniosynonstosis, anal atresia, cleft lip, cleft palate, and limb malformations. Researchers have found that pregnant women who took an SSRI after the 20th week of conception were six times more likely to give birth to a baby with PPHN. A 2008 study found a strong association between the drug Paxil and heart defects.

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If your child was born with a Cleft Lip or other birth defect, a medication such as Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro, Topamax or Depokote may be to blame.

Contact Peterson & Associates, P.C. for a FREE Birth Defect Legal Consultation >

Nursing Home Lawsuits | Information about Nursing Home Lawsuits

noreply@blogger.com (Peterson & Associates, P.C.) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:29:00 +0000

Nursing Home Lawyer | Nursing Home Lawsuit | Litigation

Nearly 2 million elderly adults live in nursing homes throughout the U.S. A rapidly aging population means thousands more will move to adult care facilities in coming years, and it is predicted that the number of elder abuse cases will also be on the upswing.

Nursing Home Abuse is a Hidden Crime

Unfortunately, reckless and negligent behavior by nursing home staff is the primary cause of such abuse. Elder abuse has been called the hidden crime because it is often difficult to recognize, it has been concealed by nursing home staff, or the victims may be too frightened or incapacitated to communicate the abuse. Nursing home abuse and deaths are rarely detected by government inspectors, assessed by medical examiners, or investigated and prosecuted by law enforcement.

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91% of Nursing Homes have Insufficient Staffing

According to the most recent federal study by the Health Care Financing Association, more than 91 percent of the nursing homes in the United States have insufficient nurse aid staffing levels to provide the necessary care to nursing home residents. In addition, more than 40 percent of all nursing homes would have to increase nurse aid staff by 50 percent or more to reach the minimum threshold necessary to meet the residents' needs.
Nursing home negligence typically includes the failure to provide basic necessities such as water, protection from health and safety hazards and general appropriate care. Negligence can result in injuries such as falls, broken hips, bed sores, malnutrition, dehydration, improper wound care and other injuries which may result in severe medical complications and even death.

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Symptoms of Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse

Neglect and abuse can take many forms. The Office of the Inspector General has categorized several types of abuse sustained by the elderly in institutional settings:
▪ Physical abuse infliction of pain or injury, including sexual abuse.
▪ Misuse of restraints chemical or physical control of residents that is not in accordance with accepted medical practice or orders.
▪ Physical neglect disregard for the necessities of daily living such as food, water, bathing and basic care.
▪ Medical neglect lack of care for existing medical problems such as ignoring a necessary medical diet, not calling a physician when necessary, being unaware of potential side effects of medications or not taking action on a medical problem.
There are several ways that you can file suit against an abusive or neglectful nursing home, including fraud, neglect, financial irregularities, failure to provide adequate care, wrongful death, breach of contract, pain and suffering, or failure to comply with nursing home statutes. One of the most effective ways to improve the lives of nursing facility residents is to take legal action when problems are discovered, in order to discourage the continued violation of basic human rights, as well as federal and state laws.

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When someone you care about has been the victim of nursing home abuse, the problems can seem overwhelming. Peterson & Associates, P.C. nursing home litigation attorneys can advise you of your loved one's legal rights, tell you what remedies might be available, and what action to take.
Do not wait until it is too late to seek legal advice. Peterson & Associates attorneys offer a free initial evaluation of your claim, and our attorneys will fight aggressively to ensure that you and your loved ones receive full maximum compensation in accordance with the law.

NURSING HOME LITIGATION AREAS
• Bedsores and Decubitus Ulcers
• Elder Abuse
• Falls / Fractures
• Malnutrition / Dehydration
• Wrongful Death

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