Implantable medical devices have revolutionized healthcare by providing solutions that improve quality of life. Whether it’s a pacemaker, joint replacement, or insulin pump, these devices play a critical role in managing various health conditions.
Around 3 million Americans rely on pacemakers. Most of them are older adults. Over 70% of those with pacemakers are at least 65 years old.
The number of patients under 65 getting joint replacements has surged by about 200% in the past two decades. Among those aged 45 to 64, inpatient hip replacements increased by 211% between 2000 and 2017. Inpatient knee replacements saw an even bigger rise, jumping by 240%.
Thus, implantable devices are popular, but with their benefits come certain risks, one of the most significant being the risk of infection. When a device is implanted, bacteria can sometimes get into the body, potentially leading to serious complications.
While healthcare providers take extensive precautions to minimize this risk, there are steps you can take to further protect yourself. Here’s what you should know.
Be Aware of Faulty Implantable Devices
Before diving into tips for preventing infections, it’s essential to address a critical point: not all implantable devices are created equal.
Over a 10-year period, defective medical equipment has been linked to more than 1.7 million patient injuries. It’s a serious issue that has also caused 83,000 deaths. The fact that medical implantable devices won’t also be faulty every once in a while can’t be ignored.
Occasionally, faulty devices make it to the market, and they can be a source of concern for patients. A malfunctioning implant is not just an inconvenience; it can increase the risk of infection if it fails to function as intended.
Ask questions. Is this device known to have had any recalls? Are there any reports of defects? Does the implantable device have an ongoing lawsuit against it, like the Bard Power Port device lawsuits?
TorHoerman Law reports that the Bard Power Port catheter devices caused serious injuries to several users. From blood clots and nerve damage to damaged blood vessels, these devices have been known to cause them all. Infection resulting from these injuries is also a possibility in the case of the Bard Power Port device.
All this led to the Bard Power Port lawsuits filed by victims to seek compensation for their losses. Right now, the Bard Power Port lawsuit settlement amount could range between $10,000 and somewhere over the $100,000 mark. The substantial settlement amounts highlight the serious health risks, including infections, associated with the use of faulty implantable medical devices.
Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions Carefully
Doctors provide specific instructions for a reason, and following them can significantly lower your risk. This might involve avoiding certain medications, showering with special antibacterial soap, or fasting before the procedure.
Each step is designed to prepare your body for surgery and minimize any chances for bacteria to enter the implant site.
It might seem inconvenient, but every pre-operative instruction has a purpose. For instance, you might be asked to stop shaving near the area where the implant will be placed. Why? Because tiny cuts from shaving can make it easier for bacteria to enter the skin, increasing your risk of infection.
Can doctors be at fault if an implantable medical device causes an infection?
Doctors may be liable if the infection is a result of negligence, such as failing to maintain a sterile environment during surgery. However, not all infections are preventable, and sometimes, the issue may be related to the device itself rather than the healthcare provider.
Maintain Proper Hygiene Post-Procedure
Once the implant is in place, your focus should shift to keeping the area clean and dry. Proper hygiene is your first line of defense against infection, especially during the first few weeks when your body is healing.
Be sure to clean the incision site as per the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This may include using mild, non-irritating soaps or prescribed solutions that are safe for the wound.
You should also be aware of any symptoms that might indicate an infection, such as redness, swelling, increased pain, or a fever. If you notice any of these, don’t wait for them to get better on their own. Early intervention can stop a mild issue from turning into a severe infection.
Be Cautious When Participating in Physical Activities
After the implant surgery, you might be eager to get back to your regular activities, but it’s crucial to be cautious. Engaging in certain physical activities too soon can irritate the implant site and potentially expose it to bacteria. Even seemingly harmless actions like swimming can introduce germs into an area that is still healing.
Your healthcare provider will likely give you specific instructions on what kinds of activities are safe and when you can resume them. Follow this advice closely, and don’t rush the process.
For instance, you can resume gentle exercises after one to two weeks of breast augmentation surgery. Overexerting yourself can compromise your recovery, increasing the risk of infection. When in doubt, ask for guidance. It’s always better to be cautious than to deal with complications later.
How do implantable medical devices cause infections?
Infections can occur if bacteria enter the body during the surgical procedure to implant the device. Once inside, these bacteria may adhere to the surface of the device, creating biofilms that are difficult for the immune system to fight. This can lead to persistent and serious infections.
Keep Regular Follow-Up Appointments
Regular check-ups after your implant procedure aren’t just a formality. They are essential to ensuring your implant is functioning correctly and that there are no signs of infection.
During these visits, your healthcare provider will check the incision site and potentially perform diagnostic tests to ensure everything is working as expected. These appointments are also an opportunity for you to ask any lingering questions. If you’re experiencing discomfort, noticing unusual symptoms, or just feeling unsure about the healing process, don’t hesitate to bring it up.
Implantable medical devices can significantly improve your quality of life, but they also come with certain responsibilities.
Why do people use implantable medical devices despite the risks they pose?
Implantable medical devices can significantly improve quality of life, offering solutions for conditions that may not be managed effectively through other treatments. For example, pacemakers regulate heart rhythms, while joint replacements restore mobility. Many patients find these benefits outweigh the potential risks.
By being proactive and informed, you can minimize your risk of infection and enjoy the benefits these devices offer. Carefully follow pre- and post-surgery instructions, maintain proper hygiene, manage your overall health, exercise caution with physical activities, and never skip your follow-up appointments.
Being vigilant about these steps can make a big difference in your recovery and ongoing health.
