A Power Morcellator is a medical device that was developed to aid in the removal of uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths on the uterus that can be removed during either a through a hysterectomy (the removal of the entire uterus) or a myomectomy.
Every year, an estimated 60,000 women undergo hysterectomy or myomectomy surgery using a Power Morcellator. However, recent studies have shown that these medical devices have been linked to the formation of certain types of uterine cancer in some women.
Power Morcellators
Power Morcellators use powered, cutting blades to liquify and extract uterine fibroids. These devices were developed and marketed as a less invasive alternative to traditional hysterectomy or myomectomy surgery. The device manufacturer promised that Power Morcellators would require a smaller incision, thereby decreasing both recovery time and risk of post-surgical infection for patients.
Studies have shown that the use of Power Morcellators during hysterectomy or myomectomy surgery can lead to dangerous health problems, including the development of a rare and aggressive form of cancer called uterine leiomyosarcoma (ULMS).
Uterine Leiomyosarcoma
While a majority of uterine fibroids are benign, noncancerous growths, they may contain previously undetected cancerous cells known as uterine sarcoma in some women.
If a women with unsuspected uterine sarcoma undergoes hysterectomy or myomectomy surgery using a Power Morcellator, there is a risk that the cancerous cells could spread to the abdomen or pelvis, leading to the formation of malignant and life-threatening tumors.
If this occurs, the patient could develop uterine leiomyosarcoma, an extremely dangerous and aggressive uterine cancer.
FDA Warnings
The Food and Drug Administration estimates that as many as one in 350 women that undergo a hysterectomy or myomectomy may have an undetected uterine sarcoma. Based on their findings, the FDA actively discourages surgeons form using a Power Morcellator during hysterectomy or myomectomy procedures.
The FDA is instructing doctors to speak with their patients before surgery, and to inform them that the use of Power Morcellators during fibroid surgery may lead to the spread of cancerous cells. Thousands of women may be at risk of developing uterine leiomyosarcoma due to the use of a Power Morcellator.
Henson Fuerst Can Help
If you or a loved one developed uterine leiomyosarcoma after receiving surgery using a Power Morcellator, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain, suffering, lost wages and medical bills. Call the experienced North Carolina Product Liability attorneys of Henson Fuerst at (919) 781-1107 or fill out a free consultation form online.
When you call Henson Fuerst, you will receive a FREE, confidential consultation with one of our experienced Defective Product attorneys. We will purse your case with dedication and compassion and do everything in our power to ensure that your rights are protected. You will never pay an attorney’s fee up front, and you owe us nothing unless we achieve a recovery for you.
