Understanding Allergan Lap Band Failures
The Allergan Lap Band (officially LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System) was marketed as a reversible, less invasive alternative to traditional bariatric surgery. The silicone band, placed around the upper portion of the stomach, creates a smaller stomach pouch to restrict food intake and create a feeling of fullness.
Alarming research shows up to 76% of patients experience device-related complications, with nearly 50% requiring device removal within 10 years. Despite mounting evidence of these risks, Allergan failed to adequately warn patients and doctors.
Cofman Townsley Attorneys at Law is committed to holding Allergan accountable for putting profits before patient safety. If you’ve suffered from Lap Band complications, our dedicated attorneys can help you pursue justice.
Common Allergan Lap Band Complications
Patients throughout Missouri have reported numerous serious complications after Allergan Lap Band surgery. Our Allergan Lap Band attorneys are investigating cases involving these dangerous complications:
The silicone band can gradually erode through stomach tissue, causing severe infection, pain, and requiring emergency surgery. This potentially life-threatening complication often necessitates complete removal of the device and extensive recovery.
Lap Bands can shift from their original position, causing severe symptoms including vomiting, reflux, and inability to eat. Slippage frequently requires surgical intervention to reposition or remove the band completely.
The access port used for band adjustments can flip, disconnect, or become infected. These complications often require additional surgeries to repair or reposition the port system, extending recovery time and increasing medical costs.
Band tightening or slippage can completely block the stomach passage, creating a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Patients often experience severe pain, vomiting, and inability to consume even liquids.
Silicone bands can develop leaks, rendering the device ineffective and requiring replacement surgery. Leakage often goes undetected initially, allowing patients to regain weight while still enduring the risks of an implanted device.
These complications often result in additional surgeries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and reduced quality of life. Our Missouri Allergan Lap Band lawyers are dedicated to helping victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Legal Claims Against Allergan
Multiple legal theories support claims against Allergan for Lap Band complications. Our Missouri Allergan Lap Band attorneys are pursuing these key arguments:
The Allergan Lap Band’s inherent design makes complications virtually inevitable for many patients. Evidence suggests Allergan knew or should have known about these fundamental flaws yet continued marketing the device.
Allergan failed to properly disclose known risks to patients and physicians. Many Missouri patients report they received minimal information about serious complications that would require band removal.
Quality control issues during manufacturing may have increased complication rates. Some devices appear to have been produced with substandard materials or inconsistent specifications, elevating patient risk.
Allergan aggressively marketed their Lap Band while downplaying known risks and exaggerating benefits. Missouri patients often report being misled about expected outcomes and potential complications.
Cofman Townsley Attorneys at Law’s Allergan Lap Band lawyers are committed to holding Allergan accountable for these failures. We understand the complex medical and legal issues involved in these cases and fight tirelessly for Missouri victims.
Do You Qualify for an Allergan Lap Band Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one received an Allergan Lap Band that caused complications, you may qualify for significant compensation. Cofman Townsley Attorneys At Law’s Missouri Allergan Lap Band attorneys are currently evaluating cases that meet these criteria:
- You received an Allergan Lap Band for weight loss
- You experienced complications such as band slippage, erosion, port issues, obstruction, or leakage
- You required revision surgery, band removal, or other medical interventions
- Your complications resulted in hospitalization, additional treatment costs, or lost income
Our experienced Missouri Allergan Lap Band lawyers will thoroughly assess your specific situation, medical records, and treatment history to determine if you have a valid claim against Allergan.
Steps Toward Filing a Claim against Allergan
If you’ve suffered from Allergan Lap Band complications, taking these steps can help protect your health and legal rights:
Your health comes first. If you’re experiencing Lap Band complications, consult a medical professional immediately. Proper documentation of your condition strengthens your legal claim.
Keep all medical documentation related to your Lap Band surgery and complications. These records provide critical evidence for your case against Allergan.
Successful claims may recover costs for additional surgeries, medications, therapy, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys will identify all potential damages in your case.
Missouri has strict deadlines for filing medical device claims. Contacting our Allergan Lap Band attorneys promptly ensures your rights are protected before time limits expire.
Get Help Now
Cofman Townsley Attorneys at Law’s experienced St. Louis Allergan Lap Band attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these complications have taken on you and your family.
Time limits apply to filing your claim. Take our quick online eligibility check today to determine if you qualify for an Allergan Lap Band lawsuit.