JPML flags off Sorin 3T Heater-Cooler MDL

JPML flags off Sorin 3T Heater-Cooler MDL

Introduction

A decision to centralize at least 39 lawsuits involving the Stockert 3T Heater-Cooler System into a multidistrict litigation in Pennsylvania was taken on 1st February by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation. This puts an end to the long wait for lawsuits awaiting this decision, claiming the 3T Heater-cooler systems manufactured by the Sorin Group spread bacteria during surgeries, which led to serious infections or patient deaths. The pretrial proceedings will be held under U.S. District Judge John E. Jones III.

The lawsuits further allege that the defendants, Sorin Group and Livanova, knew or should have known about the infection risks yet withheld information from consumers and the medical community. The lawsuits further allege that the defendants failed to prevent contamination of the devices at their manufacturing facilities resulting in the release of defective pieces onto the market.