Morcellators and Leiomyosarcoma
Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with cancer after a laparoscopic hysterectomy or myomectomy? Brown & Crouppen is investigating cases of women who have been diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma after a laparoscopic procedure where a morcellator may have been used.
A Hidden Risk
According to the Food and Drug Administration, 1 in 350 women undergoing a hysterectomy or myomectomy to remove fibroids have an undetected uterine cancer, called a sarcoma. These uterine sarcomas are highly malignant tumors, but are often hard to diagnose by physicians and hard to distinguish from non-cancerous fibroid masses during surgery.
The Spinning Blade of the Morcellator
During laparoscopic surgery for a hysterectomy or myomectomy, a surgeon may use an instrument called a morcellator. It uses a small but powerful rotating blade, like a tiny boat propeller, to divide large fibroids into small pieces, making them easier to remove through the narrow laparoscopic incision.
But the revolving blade of the morcellator may cause these tumors to spread by flinging small pieces of the cancerous tissue throughout the patient’s abdominal cavity and pelvis. This may significantly increase the risk of several kinds of cancers.
In 2014, in response to research findings, the Food and Drug Administration warned the medical community against using power morcellators during laparoscopic hysterectomies and myomectomies. Some manufacturers of morcellators ceased sales or recalled their products, but others continue to market the devices.
It all Starts with A Free Case Evaluation from the Lawyers at Brown & Crouppen
If you or someone you care for was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma after a laparoscopic hysterectomy or myomectomy, contact Brown & Crouppen today. We can help you make informed decisions about your legal rights. Call us toll-free at 800-536-4357 for a free consultation, or tell us about your case with our Free Case Review form. And remember, there’s no upfront cost to you — if you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid.
Don't take our word for it. Hear what our clients have to say.
