CPAP AND BIPAP LAWSUIT WHITEPAPER
About CPAP and PiPAP Lawsuit
CPAP and BiPAP are ventilators used to treat various types of issues. CPAP machines are used to treat sleep apnea which is a breathing disorder where one can randomly stop breathing on and off while sleeping causing one to snore very loudly.
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure that has an adjustable pressure setting. BiPAP is another form of positive airway pressure therapy that is bi-level and has two pressure settings (IPAP and EPAP). Both machines are portable and generate pressured air to open and support the airway during sleep via a hose, mask, and other accessories.
On June 30th, 2021, the U.S. FDA issued an alert to the public that the Philips Respironics BiPAP and CPAP ventilators have been recalled due to potential health risks. The recall is due to a special material that is used to make these machines called a PE-PUR (polyester-based polyurethane). This can break down into particles that the user may ingest or inhale and cause serious harm. There is no filter on the machines to prevent this. PE-PUR can also give off toxic and carcinogenic chemicals from use which the user ultimately breathes indirectly. Since the recall of the device, there have been multiple lawsuits filed claiming injuries.
CPAP and BiPAP Associated Injuries
There are many reported health risks and injuries being reported in these new developing CPAP and BIPAP lawsuits including:
- Increase the risk of cancer
- Increase the risk of pulmonary fibrosis
- Organ damage
- Headaches
- Irritation
- Inflammation
- Vomiting/Nausea
- hypersensitivity
- Respiratory issues
- Exposure to toxic materials
CPAP and PiPAP Status of Litigation
In October 2021, all federal actions were consolidated to the Western District of Pennsylvania before the Honorable Joy Flowers Conti. There have been no verdicts or known settlements at this time.
CPAP and PiPAP Manufacturer
The current manufacturers involved in these lawsuits and claims include Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Royal Philips), Philips North America LLC, and Philips RS North America LLC.