Boston Scientific faces new spinal cord stimulator lawsuit

Advertisement

An Alabama woman sued Boston Scientific and Boston Scientific Neuromodulation, alleging one of the companies’ spinal cord stimulator systems caused injuries after it was implanted to treat chronic pain. The complaint was filed July 30 in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. 

According to the lawsuit, Kathleen Poore underwent implantation of a Boston Scientific spinal cord stimulator in October 2023. She alleged the device failed to provide the expected pain relief and instead caused worsening pain, numbness, shocking sensations and bladder incontinence, ultimately requiring surgical removal. 

The complaint alleged Boston Scientific failed to adequately warn physicians and patients about known risks associated with the device and asserted claims including strict product liability, failure to warn, negligence, breach of warranty, fraudulent concealment and violations of consumer protection laws. 

It also alleged the company made significant changes to the spinal cord stimulator system through the FDA’s premarket approval supplement process without adequately disclosing related risks. 

The lawsuit adds to a growing body of spinal cord stimulator litigation. Becker’s previously reported that patients have filed similar lawsuits against Abbott Laboratories, Boston Scientific, Medtronic and Nevro over the devices, and that Boston Scientific spinal cord stimulator cases have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation in the Central District of California. 

Becker’s has reached out to Boston Scientific for comment and will update this story if more information becomes available.

At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Advertisement

Next Up in Spinal Tech

Advertisement