Weight loss can be a challenging, lifelong struggle for many individuals. For some, medical interventions like obesity balloons, also known as intragastric balloons, may appear to offer hope. These devices, designed to assist in weight loss by limiting food intake, are often marketed as minimally invasive and safe. However, in recent years, lawsuits have emerged alleging serious injuries and complications tied to these devices. If an obesity balloon has harmed you or a loved one, it’s important to understand your legal rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
What Are Obesity Balloons?
Obesity balloons are FDA-approved medical devices used to help patients lose weight. The balloon is inserted into the stomach via endoscopy and then inflated with saline or gas. Taking up space in the stomach makes the patient feel full faster, reducing their food intake and promoting weight loss. These devices are typically recommended for individuals who are obese and have not achieved significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
Popular brands of obesity balloons in the market include the Orbera, ReShape, and Obalon systems. While marketed as a relatively safe short-term solution (the balloon is usually removed within six months), evidence shows these devices are not without risk.
Potential Risks and Complications
Although many people use obesity balloons without severe issues, complications have been reported that, in some cases, result in life-threatening conditions. These include:
1. Perforation of the stomach or esophagus
The insertion or inflation of the balloon can cause tears in the stomach lining or damage the esophagus, leading to severe infections or internal bleeding.
2. Acute pancreatitis
This rare but serious complication occurs when the balloon presses on the pancreas, causing inflammation.
3. Bowel obstruction
Obesity balloons can deflate prematurely, allowing the device to migrate into the intestines and cause an obstruction, which often requires emergency surgery.
4. Nausea, vomiting, and pain
Persistent discomfort can interfere with daily life and lead to dehydration or malnutrition.
5. Death
Tragically, some patients have died due to complications linked to the use of these devices. The FDA has reported over a dozen deaths associated with obesity balloons since 2016.
The risk of these complications has raised concerns about the safety of these devices, especially when manufacturers fail to provide adequate warnings or when defects go undetected.
Recent Lawsuits and Legal Implications
A growing number of lawsuits have been filed against obesity balloon manufacturers, alleging negligence, product defects, or failure to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about potential risks. These lawsuits often claim that:
- Manufacturers knew or should have known about the risks associated with the devices but did not provide sufficient warnings.
- The devices were defective in design, manufacturing, or both, leading to avoidable harm to patients.
- Companies failed to conduct adequate clinical testing to ensure long-term safety before widely distributing these products.
For example, families of patients who died due to obesity balloon complications have filed wrongful death lawsuits against companies like Apollo Endosurgery, the maker of the Orbera balloon system. Plaintiffs often cite a lack of clear safety warnings and inadequate post-market monitoring as contributing factors.
These legal cases also often aim to hold manufacturers accountable for marketing practices that downplay risks and create false security among patients and doctors.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Patients or families affected by complications from obesity balloons may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and long-term care.
- Lost wages and future earning capacity.
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
- Funeral expenses and loss of companionship in wrongful death cases.
Navigating a lawsuit against a medical device manufacturer can be complex and overwhelming. That’s where a skilled personal injury attorney steps in to help. Our experienced team will:
1. Investigate Your Case
We’ll collect medical records, analyze surgical reports, and work with experts to determine whether negligence occurred.
2. Hold Manufacturers Accountable
Large corporations should not be allowed to prioritize profits over public safety. We’ll uncover evidence of misconduct or deficient safety testing.
3. Fight for Maximum Compensation
Your health and financial stability matter to us. We’ll advocate tirelessly to secure fair compensation for your suffering.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
It’s important to act quickly if you believe you or a loved one suffered complications due to an obesity balloon. Each state has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits, limiting the time you have to take legal action. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to compensation.
Obesity Balloon Lawsuit
Navigating the complexities of obesity balloon devices, from understanding the risks to pursuing legal action, requires informed decision-making and expert guidance. If you or a loved one has been affected by an obesity balloon device, Matthews & Associates in Houston, TX, is here to help. Our experienced legal team specializes in medical device litigation and is dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (888) 923-7001 to learn more about how we can assist you in seeking justice and promoting safer medical practices.
