Lawsuit Over Medtronic Infuse and LT-Cage Filed After Failed Spine Fusion

A Missouri woman has joined a growing number of individuals throughout the country who are pursuing a lawsuit over the Medtronic Infuse Bone Graft and LT-Cage, alleging that the spinal fusion implant failed after it was used “off-label” for a procedure that was never established as safe or effective. 

A complaint (PDF) was filed by Laura Blankenship on September 13, in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California against Medtronic, Inc., claiming that complications from a Medtronic Infuse spine fusion have left her with persistent neck and back pain.

According to the lawsuit, Blankenship underwent surgery where her surgeon used the Medtronic Infuse Bone Graft and LT-Cage to promote the fusion of vertebrae in her spine. However, the surgeon used the product “off-label” after Medtronic allegedly promoted Infuse for applications beyond what was approved by the FDA.

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Blankenship claims that the Medtronic Infuse spine fusion failed, leaving her with worse neck and back pain that was caused by excessive bone growth around the implant.

Medtronic Infuse is a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) that is applied to an absorbable collagen sponge placed within a device known as an LT-Cage, which is then implanted to encourage bone growth and fuse the gaps between vertebrae. Since introducing the product in 2002, Medtronic has aggressively promoted Infuse bone graft surgery as an alternative to traditional spine fusions, where bone is harvested from another part of the body or from cadavers.

However, although the FDA only approved the Medtronic Infuse and LT-Cage for the limited spinal procedures involving a single-level anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), where the spine is approached from the front, the Medtronic Infuse has been widely used “off-label” for other types of spine fusion surgery, which have been linked to an increased risk of severe and painful complications caused by excessive or ectopic bone growth.

In 2008, the FDA issued an alert about the risks associated with such unapproved uses of Medtronic Infuse, after receiving a number of reports involving serious complications and deaths, often involving use in the cervical spine where the bone growth problems may impact the airway.

Medtronic has been accused of illegally promoting off-label use of Infuse by providing false and misleading statements and paying “opinion leaders” to encourage uses beyond what was approved by the FDA. As a result, some estimates such that as much as 85% of all sales for Medtronic Infuse were for such off-label uses.

Blankenship’s case joins a growing number of Medtronic Infuse and LT-Cage lawsuits filed in state and federal courts throughout the country. The complaints involve similar allegations that Medtronic negligently designed and manufactured a defective product, failing to adequately research the device or warn about the risk of complications. Many of the lawsuits also seek punitive damages against the company for its alleged reckless behavior in Infuse illegal promotions.

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50 Comments

  • RandallFebruary 15, 2023 at 9:12 pm

    Had C5/C6 metronics cage fusion in 5/07 I called many times to my Dr's and even Medtronics Noone seemed to care only to say It will get better 15yrs later ive seen several Dr's due to Very hard swallow hard to breathe Rough throat and rough voice since Very dry mouth and throat seems like I could just stop breathing at times it's very scary esp while laying down One Dr said it's grown into my voca[Show More]Had C5/C6 metronics cage fusion in 5/07 I called many times to my Dr's and even Medtronics Noone seemed to care only to say It will get better 15yrs later ive seen several Dr's due to Very hard swallow hard to breathe Rough throat and rough voice since Very dry mouth and throat seems like I could just stop breathing at times it's very scary esp while laying down One Dr said it's grown into my vocal cords but seems Like Noone wants to get involved With helping me I'm older now having Severe pains burn aches in my rt side neck rt shoulder pains burns into my thoracic numbness in my neck mouth area hands and feet these started very early on after surgery Its all documented anyone have any ideas??? Thanks

  • GlendaFebruary 13, 2023 at 9:27 am

    I've had multiple spinal surgeries ranging from cages to plates to rods and every one of them have failed. I was told last year that my neck is no longer stable and my lumbar never did fuse at all.

  • SheilaDecember 1, 2022 at 6:45 pm

    Had spinal fusion with the cage and the graph putty at L3/4 I have a nonunion . I sought out for a second opinion, and still with more complications piled up on top of it. Now I’m going for my third opinion I will report later with the full story. Thank you.

  • AngieOctober 25, 2022 at 4:44 pm

    I have had 3 back surgeries this last one is not 2yrs old,and I'm having complications, feet numb ,hands numb,severe back pain,radiology confirmed I had loose hardware, and my infusion did not heal, so I'm constantly in pain

  • BethApril 27, 2022 at 11:05 pm

    Dr Gerald Rodts at Emory in Atlanta did ACDF c5-6 with PEEK cage and made the cage to thick. It gave me too much disk height and I developed thoracic outlet syndrome from it - leading to 6 additional surgeries. When told something was wrong, he disagreed and didn’t order imaging. He just did another on me (I have just been made aware of what happened in 2014) in 2/22/21 and I have been worse since[Show More]Dr Gerald Rodts at Emory in Atlanta did ACDF c5-6 with PEEK cage and made the cage to thick. It gave me too much disk height and I developed thoracic outlet syndrome from it - leading to 6 additional surgeries. When told something was wrong, he disagreed and didn’t order imaging. He just did another on me (I have just been made aware of what happened in 2014) in 2/22/21 and I have been worse since surgery. Again he wouldn’t order tests to show what was happening. Traveled out of state and found better imaging and honest surgeons and also found honest surgeons in Georgia. I need a revision or pcdf to fix. Want to Sue him. Need to know how Dr Rodts stole almost 10 years of my life, cost me my career, marriage, everything. He took it away with his negligence and arrogance.

  • StanleySeptember 29, 2021 at 1:40 pm

    I had a lumbar spine fusion graph 9 years ago after I had the surgery 2 years later I had a crime True Crime podcast I am still having spinal pain today I am taking Percocet and oxycontin for pain I recently had a defibrillator put in I still can't sleep at night because of the pain I cannot sit long because of the pain I have a lot of scar tissue damage and nerve damage actually my life was bette[Show More]I had a lumbar spine fusion graph 9 years ago after I had the surgery 2 years later I had a crime True Crime podcast I am still having spinal pain today I am taking Percocet and oxycontin for pain I recently had a defibrillator put in I still can't sleep at night because of the pain I cannot sit long because of the pain I have a lot of scar tissue damage and nerve damage actually my life was better before the surgery if I had to do it again I would not have done it

  • DorisDecember 24, 2020 at 9:07 pm

    August 2011 I received the following procedures: A left L4-5 laminotomy with foraminotomy to allow placement of a Capstone 12 x26 mm interbody fusion cage as TLIF (lift transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion) using bone morphogenic protein, local bone. Also completed was an instrumented posterolateral fusion with pedicle screws, 3D TSRH 6.5 X 40 mm screws with 4 cm 1/4 inch rods, low profile, to[Show More]August 2011 I received the following procedures: A left L4-5 laminotomy with foraminotomy to allow placement of a Capstone 12 x26 mm interbody fusion cage as TLIF (lift transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion) using bone morphogenic protein, local bone. Also completed was an instrumented posterolateral fusion with pedicle screws, 3D TSRH 6.5 X 40 mm screws with 4 cm 1/4 inch rods, low profile, top tightening coupler and graft placed posterolaterally was allograft, cancellous 15 mL with local bone and bone morphogenic protein. Since that date, I needed to take opiod medication daily. Recent imaging showed movement of the cage. Increased pain the last several years along with severe weakness in my legs. Legally how can you help me.

  • CesarOctober 12, 2020 at 8:36 am

    I had the same surgery in 2000or 2001 a pece of bone was cut from my hip that pain is always been there and the back pain comes and go but for the last 5 year is been their not so like before the surgery but the las 3 moths is been increasing

  • JohnApril 1, 2018 at 4:09 pm

    have cages in my back with bone growth on them with spires one side of the cage was collapsed had to have another surgery to correct pain in hip groin and legs with swelling sexual dysfunction can set stand or walk for an extended period of time need help to preform daily tasks need help with personal care and iv been told by the doctor that there is nothing that can be done about it and I have to[Show More]have cages in my back with bone growth on them with spires one side of the cage was collapsed had to have another surgery to correct pain in hip groin and legs with swelling sexual dysfunction can set stand or walk for an extended period of time need help to preform daily tasks need help with personal care and iv been told by the doctor that there is nothing that can be done about it and I have to live with it pain killers no longer help and they want to prescribe medical cannabis have been dealing with the pain since the surgery for the last ten years please try to help

  • DavidOctober 31, 2017 at 4:35 pm

    Hope I get some kind of comment on what to do I had surgery in 2002 and my back haven't had a break from this stupid pain the surgeon said it is healing and on and on I had my l5s1 fixed was only supposed to be a fusion but what happened they had to put a peek cage screws titanium I am physically and mentally drained had a MRI in I think 2005 and report said non Union fusion but ignoring the pro[Show More]Hope I get some kind of comment on what to do I had surgery in 2002 and my back haven't had a break from this stupid pain the surgeon said it is healing and on and on I had my l5s1 fixed was only supposed to be a fusion but what happened they had to put a peek cage screws titanium I am physically and mentally drained had a MRI in I think 2005 and report said non Union fusion but ignoring the problems really stinks well to put this long story to an end. In 2015 had a MRI and L4L5S1 degeneration of disks bulging with large bone spurs so I need some suggestions on who to go see in Connecticut anything would help Thank You Dave

  • DonaldAugust 2, 2017 at 2:23 pm

    L 5 surgery with mesh cage ..plates .rods screws

  • LarryJuly 25, 2017 at 1:26 am

    Hello, My husband had back surgery 2000 in Mason City IA. The cage is BAK bone graft fusion... approximately 1 hour after surgery. The doctor came into his room and wanted him to get out of bed and walk. we both were reluctant and surprise that he ask him. So my husband followed his instructions and request, he got out of bed and that's when we heard a big pop sound something went wrong, both of [Show More]Hello, My husband had back surgery 2000 in Mason City IA. The cage is BAK bone graft fusion... approximately 1 hour after surgery. The doctor came into his room and wanted him to get out of bed and walk. we both were reluctant and surprise that he ask him. So my husband followed his instructions and request, he got out of bed and that's when we heard a big pop sound something went wrong, both of his legs went on fire, pins and needles, numbness...could not have anything thing over his legs ever painful... he's been on pain medication ever sent. Failed back surgery/ BAK cage.. His pain doctor referred us to a specialist for another back surgery... Sincerely Larry

  • JobJune 29, 2017 at 9:03 pm

    I had a cage I planted L4 -L5 in 2003 the fusion broke in 2005 and the pain is there , at times sending me to the ER

  • LarryJune 24, 2017 at 6:59 am

    My husband had his surgeon back in 2000 and when he got out and was in recover, the doctor came in and ask how he feels and so far all was good.. until he told him to sit up we look at each other and when he did we both heard a big pop in his lower back and excruciating pain he told him his legs were on fire. Dr. Beck from Iowa did the surgery... been in pain & on pain meds. ever sent. now the pai[Show More]My husband had his surgeon back in 2000 and when he got out and was in recover, the doctor came in and ask how he feels and so far all was good.. until he told him to sit up we look at each other and when he did we both heard a big pop in his lower back and excruciating pain he told him his legs were on fire. Dr. Beck from Iowa did the surgery... been in pain & on pain meds. ever sent. now the pain doctors refer him to a back surgeon here in Oregon, went to go see him to see, took all medical record and x-ray.. come to fine out the cage he use was not good and the way the doctor did the surgery was something new they were trying.. going though the stomach was not a good... How do we fine out if we have a case or not... I know we cant go after the Doctor, because its been so long, but what about the manufacture of the cage? Need help !!!!

  • angeloMay 11, 2017 at 1:31 am

    Everyone should name the surgeon and place of his practice on every comment. It might uncover a surgeon(s) turning out bad results. Anyone had Dr.Stanton Schiffer in San Ramon,CA.?

  • RebeccaJune 12, 2016 at 4:24 pm

    Surgery of c3-c6 in 2009, just found out I had a broken screw. Been experiencing neck pain for awhile, along with shoulder pain and arm pain... Also leg pain... Had X-rays taken... Now being sent back to original doc who did surgery to get his opinion on what to do and see how bad it might be. I don't know the brand of this titanium plate, or titanium screws... But I am going to try to research th[Show More]Surgery of c3-c6 in 2009, just found out I had a broken screw. Been experiencing neck pain for awhile, along with shoulder pain and arm pain... Also leg pain... Had X-rays taken... Now being sent back to original doc who did surgery to get his opinion on what to do and see how bad it might be. I don't know the brand of this titanium plate, or titanium screws... But I am going to try to research this... No grafts were done... But I know I am sure tired of all this pain. Any replies on how to find info out is greatly appreciated.

  • BenSeptember 30, 2015 at 11:59 pm

    I feel for each and everyone of you. I had infused implanted in me and was never told by doctor that he was going to use that device. He sent me to a fusion class and they told me they were going to use allograft(cadaver bone) to most of us.I went to 10 doctors that lied in one manner or another , say I was completely healed but I still was in pain and getting worst. The doctors were workers comp [Show More]I feel for each and everyone of you. I had infused implanted in me and was never told by doctor that he was going to use that device. He sent me to a fusion class and they told me they were going to use allograft(cadaver bone) to most of us.I went to 10 doctors that lied in one manner or another , say I was completely healed but I still was in pain and getting worst. The doctors were workers comp doctors. So I flee under the the radar and went to a doctor using my medicare. Doctor found a non union and they used peak cages. One doctor said they almost lost their job siding with a patient over worker comp. Look in your opt report it should tell you what's inside you. Fair warning lawyers,doctors,judges and Most states are all for the insurance companies your life does not mean crap to them. They will lie to you but U better not lie to them or you will do prison time but they can destroy you and family and that's fine. Our does not protect us hard workers who get hurt they protect the rich!!! Corrupted

  • ElizaSeptember 13, 2015 at 2:20 pm

    I had spinal fusions L-1 through S-1. This was in October of 2013. For first six months I thought I was improving some yet pain never completely went away and then got worse. Finally after almost two years at my request at the spine pain clinic a CT scan was ordered. I had them send copy to my original surgeon and that is when I found out that the top part of fusion and bottom fusion did not e[Show More]I had spinal fusions L-1 through S-1. This was in October of 2013. For first six months I thought I was improving some yet pain never completely went away and then got worse. Finally after almost two years at my request at the spine pain clinic a CT scan was ordered. I had them send copy to my original surgeon and that is when I found out that the top part of fusion and bottom fusion did not ever fuse. The middle seemed to fuse. I had loose screws and was advised by my original surgeon to go through surgery again ASAP to remove old hardware and replace by going through abdomen and back. In my surgical report medtronic parts were used. It specific mentions medtronic parts three times in one paragraph. Having second surgery in a week with different surgeon who says he can do it by going only through back. What can. Do at this point about old parts and grafts that failed and are coming out?

  • BrendaMay 17, 2015 at 11:50 pm

    I had surgery #5 on June 6, 2013 a back fusion in L4/L5 region. I have not been doing well since that surgery. Now for the past 3 months the pain has been unbearable. It feels like pins & Needle's sticking in on the left hand side of my scar. I have had MRI & CT scan and have gone back to see my surgeon that did my surgery. He just shunned me off with no answers. I know for a fact something i[Show More]I had surgery #5 on June 6, 2013 a back fusion in L4/L5 region. I have not been doing well since that surgery. Now for the past 3 months the pain has been unbearable. It feels like pins & Needle's sticking in on the left hand side of my scar. I have had MRI & CT scan and have gone back to see my surgeon that did my surgery. He just shunned me off with no answers. I know for a fact something is so wrong!!!!!! I am in the process of trying to find out the name and brand of hardware used in my back. I have excurating pain in the scar region across left hip and into left hip joint. Nothing is wrong with my actual hip joint. I have had MRI & CT ON that area. I need help as to what I need to do... Please help!

  • johnApril 9, 2015 at 5:14 pm

    In 5 2008 L4 L5 S1 fusion the doc used cadaer bone now they have go in cut bone away from the nerve to stop some pain in lower back and hip right then 2 weeks later going put some clamp in and I am permanently disabled I,am looking for help

  • RacquelAugust 29, 2014 at 8:32 am

    I had a fall at work 2/2008 and because of this I am now permanently disabled. I suffer with severe nerve pain and cant walk on my feet somedays. I had spinal fusion L5-S1 10/08 and never got better. Workcomp sent me to 6 different doctors that said the wrong surgery was done and that my back never healed. I found out 2/13 that the doctor did the wrong surgery. My L4 disc was damaged and torn. Thr[Show More]I had a fall at work 2/2008 and because of this I am now permanently disabled. I suffer with severe nerve pain and cant walk on my feet somedays. I had spinal fusion L5-S1 10/08 and never got better. Workcomp sent me to 6 different doctors that said the wrong surgery was done and that my back never healed. I found out 2/13 that the doctor did the wrong surgery. My L4 disc was damaged and torn. Through more painful procedures I found out the wrong surgery was done and I walked around for 5yrs with a back that never healed or harden. I had corrective surgery 6/13. my surgery took 8 hrs because there was more damage than expected. I almost died because they couldnt control the pain. My pain has worsened ans some days I cant even walk on my feet from the nerve pain. I dont sleep at night because the pain is worse. I will never be able return to my career RN. I dont understand how this doctor can get away with this and how is it legal that workmans compensation knew and kept this information a secret. My current doctor said if I had fallen or had a car accident I could have been paralyzed or died. My purpose for looking for lawyer is justice. Money is not the reason, it plays a role but even if I was to win the lottery it will never take this pain away. I WANT and NEED justice for myself and my kids who suffer with anger and depression because I am in pain every second of my life.

  • PauletteAugust 26, 2014 at 9:17 pm

    Due to a hit and run accident I being a pedestrian on 3/19/2010 had Medtronic Lt cage infusion after going through months of PT and injections which all proved ineffective. Then while recovering from surgery which was done Oct. 2011. I was recovering nicely off all pain meds when on Feb. 15,2012 I slipped on black ice and landed flat out on my rt. Hip. Well I've have had so much chronic pain its [Show More]Due to a hit and run accident I being a pedestrian on 3/19/2010 had Medtronic Lt cage infusion after going through months of PT and injections which all proved ineffective. Then while recovering from surgery which was done Oct. 2011. I was recovering nicely off all pain meds when on Feb. 15,2012 I slipped on black ice and landed flat out on my rt. Hip. Well I've have had so much chronic pain its intolerable. On August 5, 2013 I had a SI Joint injection which failed miserably to ease my pain as a matter of fact it is WORST than ever now both hips and legs are in constant pain and it now seems that another issue has come out of this. I have an attorney because the hit and run was the 3rd accident in 18 months . a few months back After the surgery I saw an article which said the Medtronic Lt infusion cage was r recalled in November of 2012 so why did the surgeon leave a defective device on January 10, 2013 the day of my 2nd surgery. With all the pain I've had in the past 4 yrs has robbed me of a life that is anything but enjoyable. now I believe that the drs. Are only going to suggest more surgery. To which I say forget it I'll not go through that pain again.

  • debraAugust 23, 2014 at 11:15 pm

    I am one of the people that the doctor stated at the time of surgery that this isnt approved by the afd,but will work,i didnt know this until i was almost under and was hooked up to all the equipment ready for surgery,i thought this wasnt right,i have had nothing but heavy medical problems after this was placed in my body,i walked in the hospital for surgery and was wheeled out and had to learn to[Show More]I am one of the people that the doctor stated at the time of surgery that this isnt approved by the afd,but will work,i didnt know this until i was almost under and was hooked up to all the equipment ready for surgery,i thought this wasnt right,i have had nothing but heavy medical problems after this was placed in my body,i walked in the hospital for surgery and was wheeled out and had to learn to walk all over agin.i also went in me weighing 144 pounds and at 2 months after surgery i weight was 94 - pounds.i have under gone surgery for growths on my throute and i wasnt pain free,when i went to tell the doctor that this has happen to me,i was told that he had been fired for preforming surgery on people with this medtronic and law suits had been filed.and was told that this dr.had left the country.so i didnt know anything til now that i had gotton my records and read them and had found out i had went thru the same thing as this is talking about,spinal fusion with bone graft

  • JenniferAugust 20, 2014 at 5:04 pm

    I am heading back once again to my spinal surgeon due to intense constant pain in lower back, left hip and nerve pain in the same areas. i had a spinal fusion in 2005, I am definitely going to ask about the Medtronic cage, screws and more to see if they were used on me. I had this same thing last year to the date and they did a steroid injection into my spinal column hurt like heck, helped about 3[Show More]I am heading back once again to my spinal surgeon due to intense constant pain in lower back, left hip and nerve pain in the same areas. i had a spinal fusion in 2005, I am definitely going to ask about the Medtronic cage, screws and more to see if they were used on me. I had this same thing last year to the date and they did a steroid injection into my spinal column hurt like heck, helped about 3 months and then the pain I have felt since year 2 after surgery came back. Thank you for having this info out there would have never known without it.

  • CatherineAugust 10, 2014 at 5:57 am

    I had two; first one was frontal cervical 3/4/5 fusion bone cadaver/cages/plate in 2002, and second one was post cervical 6/7 back with rods,springs and wires in 2003. I even wore an electronic neck brace to help speed up the bone growth fusion for the cages. I still have severe pain and numbness in hip and feet swell all the time, very painful and severe pain in lower back as to where it goes[Show More]I had two; first one was frontal cervical 3/4/5 fusion bone cadaver/cages/plate in 2002, and second one was post cervical 6/7 back with rods,springs and wires in 2003. I even wore an electronic neck brace to help speed up the bone growth fusion for the cages. I still have severe pain and numbness in hip and feet swell all the time, very painful and severe pain in lower back as to where it goes out and i cant hardly walk and have to go to ER to get injections..On my scans it shows a screw too long through the bone and is pressing a nerve in my neck/ head. I get headaches and still have bad neck pain too. I have been totally depressed since my surgeries for i cant do hardly anything i use to do, as an active person that i was once...

  • DeniseAugust 7, 2014 at 5:00 pm

    I had an anterior cervical fusion in January of 2012. I suffered with severe pain, issues with my arms, hands and fingers. In March of this year a different surgeon made not of the failed fusion at C5. In March I had a posterior cervical revision to repair the failed fusion. Is there any chance I could file a lawsuit to recover my lost wages, cost of surgery and other costs that have added up [Show More]I had an anterior cervical fusion in January of 2012. I suffered with severe pain, issues with my arms, hands and fingers. In March of this year a different surgeon made not of the failed fusion at C5. In March I had a posterior cervical revision to repair the failed fusion. Is there any chance I could file a lawsuit to recover my lost wages, cost of surgery and other costs that have added up for both of these surgeries?

  • BryantAugust 1, 2014 at 9:28 pm

    I had surgery in 2010 on my neck on c4 c5 and c6. .. which a cage was implanted as well .... it's not getting any better, I'm still having numbness in my arm and pain shooting down my right side of my arm and legs. ... what can be done? ?? Please help... The name of the cage is peek....

  • MartinJuly 26, 2014 at 7:26 am

    I had lower back spinal fusion to my L4 in 2004 .I have had swelling to my legs and feet swelling to my upper back and numbness to lower extremities.painful.also feel like something pokes area where fussion took place..scale 1 thru 10 definite 8 or 9'where can I ask for help..

  • BobbieJuly 11, 2014 at 4:01 pm

    Hello Im a 39-yr-old female. I have five lumbar surgeries. This all following a car accident while 8-months preg. Eight months after accident had my 1st sugery which my L5/S1 nuckles of disks was shaved. In May of 2006 had same area fused. They used medtronic cages & took bone from my hip. Which by November of 06 had my 3rd surgery due to bone growing over nerves. Tons of pain. I had no relief fro[Show More]Hello Im a 39-yr-old female. I have five lumbar surgeries. This all following a car accident while 8-months preg. Eight months after accident had my 1st sugery which my L5/S1 nuckles of disks was shaved. In May of 2006 had same area fused. They used medtronic cages & took bone from my hip. Which by November of 06 had my 3rd surgery due to bone growing over nerves. Tons of pain. I had no relief from any of these. So in 09 had my 4Th surgery was told that the cage/spacer was the wrong size & was told I basically had a failed fusion. No pain relief just put on more pain meds that just cover the pain for about an hour two if Im lucky. Pain cont to get so bad started having bad falls again unbearable pain. 2012 went in was told my screw was outta place & had to have hardware removed. Got hardware out of left side however, doctor could not get right side hardware out said it was stuck in my back. I now to date have hip problems worse pain then ever & had MRI done its shows since hardware removal on left side the once complete fused bone has progressivly narrowed. I am unable to work can not do house work can not drive to long. Im also now dealing with mid back and neck issues that have been detected by MRI. I have been put on oxygen my doctors can not figure out why my oxygen is low have done over 40 test to find out. Any ideas that anyone may have as far as any type of lawsuit or attorney would be a huge BLESSING to myself & my children. Tho no amount of money can ever give me back what has been taken. It could give hope of some sort of a life with my soon to be grandchildren. Thanks for taking time to read my surgical story. (sorry for any misspelled words)

  • TimothyJune 30, 2014 at 5:52 pm

    Had my L1 T11 Fused nothing but pain? Any Suggestions about Law Suit..

  • SueJune 16, 2014 at 8:55 am

    I had spinal fusion done at the L4-L5 with this cage 9 years ago. The Dr. also added rods and screws too..Before surgery I was having pain issues, but could have somewhat of a normal life. I helped move my mother from another state over a weekend...packing up a 3 bedroom home and moving her to live with us 3 states away! After surgery, the pain in my legs and lower back were worse!!! I wanted to[Show More]I had spinal fusion done at the L4-L5 with this cage 9 years ago. The Dr. also added rods and screws too..Before surgery I was having pain issues, but could have somewhat of a normal life. I helped move my mother from another state over a weekend...packing up a 3 bedroom home and moving her to live with us 3 states away! After surgery, the pain in my legs and lower back were worse!!! I wanted to cut my legs off!!! They passed me off to the pain management specialist too and that did nothing to fix the pain. I couldn't drive, sleep.. anything for almost 1 yr. I found strong pain meds the only option of relief.. and am now disabled due to the pain and the pain meds.. I sleep a lot and can't do housework and can't afford to get someone in to clean. I wish I had never had this surgery done. NEVER NEVER NEVER!!!!

  • MikeJune 15, 2014 at 10:15 am

    Had titanium bak cage fail during a L3-4-5 fusion. The bolt threads stripped. And a 4 hour surgery took 9 hrs and horribly failed. The striooed bolt was discarded and cadaver bones never fused. Plus the surgeon asked me to be his first person to do his bak fitanium anterior double level fusion. Why did the titanium bak bolt strip?.

  • amberJune 4, 2014 at 6:52 pm

    I've lost allot of my memory. But about 8 yrs ago it started with having severe pain in my neck n back. This Dr I went to started putting injections up n down my spine every two weeks for 2 yrs. I kept telling her it wasn't helping she sent me to her boy friend for a neck surgery , fusion . Which made things even worse. The next Dr I found had the same idea he started injecting me a lot and burnin[Show More]I've lost allot of my memory. But about 8 yrs ago it started with having severe pain in my neck n back. This Dr I went to started putting injections up n down my spine every two weeks for 2 yrs. I kept telling her it wasn't helping she sent me to her boy friend for a neck surgery , fusion . Which made things even worse. The next Dr I found had the same idea he started injecting me a lot and burning the nerves in my neck so I wouldn't feel the pain. Ha what a joke. I have more pain then ever @ 36 I feel 86 pain is off the charts. Bad sweats non stop muscle spasms my shoulders swell up n touch my ears. I'm on string pain meds. N that just takes the edge off. These so called dr.s have made my life hell. Someone please tell me what to do. Can any one help me plz..

  • KimApril 24, 2014 at 3:06 am

    I had surgery on my back in 2004 shooting pain down my leg. My neck had surgery in 2005. I hurt all the time when I had the surgerys I had way to many nerve blocks headache . No lawyer will touch the case in Florida cause the doctor is very well known. I tried from Miami to Tallahassee and no one would help me. I finally got a well known attorney got a letter saying they will not represent me an[Show More]I had surgery on my back in 2004 shooting pain down my leg. My neck had surgery in 2005. I hurt all the time when I had the surgerys I had way to many nerve blocks headache . No lawyer will touch the case in Florida cause the doctor is very well known. I tried from Miami to Tallahassee and no one would help me. I finally got a well known attorney got a letter saying they will not represent me and to call for any information. Well I've call 4 times no response. So I'm still in pain after all these years. Just isn't right..

  • dennisFebruary 22, 2014 at 4:04 am

    wife had Medtronic products screws, pins and infuse 3 years ago and now its failing and shes in worse pain and can hardly move. I would like anymore feed back if theres someone out there with similar problems.

  • DavidFebruary 6, 2014 at 2:23 pm

    I had this cage put in my neck in 2009. According to the doctor it was supposed to be the best and do away with the pain I had in my neck and head. It did not. I was told to take more "meds", but a working person cannot take a lot of pills and work. I had another surgery in 2010. They had to fiix the two vertebrae below the previous ones. I used another surgeon. He told me he could not rem[Show More]I had this cage put in my neck in 2009. According to the doctor it was supposed to be the best and do away with the pain I had in my neck and head. It did not. I was told to take more "meds", but a working person cannot take a lot of pills and work. I had another surgery in 2010. They had to fiix the two vertebrae below the previous ones. I used another surgeon. He told me he could not remove the cage that had been put in because it would do more damage than good. Muscles had grown around the cage. I have had another surgery on my neck and am looking at one more. I also suffer from spinal stenosis. The doctor who did the first procedure had one lawsuit, That I know of, filed against him, but there were other friends who also had the same surgery by him and they have suffered like I have. Two of them had to go to anothersurgeon, the same one I used last times, to get relief. It looks like something could be done about a doctor putting these implants in, knowing they are doing more harm than good Is there anything we can do do to stop this malpractice for which the doctor is getting rich on causing other people so much pain?

  • michaelMay 11, 2013 at 6:47 am

    Does anyone know if medtroncis salesmen gave spinal surgeons samples of Medtronics Infuse RhBMP2 in 2002 and 2003? Thank you for any help.

  • maryApril 26, 2013 at 12:46 pm

    i had spinal fusion surgery in 2008 with using bone graft from my right hip. as many stated the surgen said the pain will go away. here it is 5 yrs later and my hip is still tender to the touch, and server pain radiated in my hip if im walking, getting out of car. my back still is very very sore. I believe I was talked into having a neurotransmitter by another surgen, which I did have done, figuri[Show More]i had spinal fusion surgery in 2008 with using bone graft from my right hip. as many stated the surgen said the pain will go away. here it is 5 yrs later and my hip is still tender to the touch, and server pain radiated in my hip if im walking, getting out of car. my back still is very very sore. I believe I was talked into having a neurotransmitter by another surgen, which I did have done, figuring something might help. well, no go. im still in constant pain. ive told every dr. about my hip especially, they all say oh its your back not your hip. I know where the pain is. the hip. im so frustrated.

  • JoanApril 24, 2013 at 12:42 am

    Had a spinal fusion done in 2007. Medtronic hardware was used. I had a posterior fusion from L1 to T12. Almost 3/4th of my back. Since then I have had 5 surgeries to repair broken rods & removal of iliac screws in my hips that had became loose. I actually heard the hardware break. I ended up losing the best job I have ever had & have applied for disability. Cannot find an attorney to take [Show More]Had a spinal fusion done in 2007. Medtronic hardware was used. I had a posterior fusion from L1 to T12. Almost 3/4th of my back. Since then I have had 5 surgeries to repair broken rods & removal of iliac screws in my hips that had became loose. I actually heard the hardware break. I ended up losing the best job I have ever had & have applied for disability. Cannot find an attorney to take my case. Medtronic is too big of a company

  • BethApril 23, 2013 at 11:23 pm

    I had a fusion from L3-S1 and the pain never completely went away, It worsened 10fold in less than a year. I get constant stabs of pain, underlying buttock pain, pins and needles in legs, sometimes my right foot drags behind me, I had to leave my job, can't do anything. No surgeon can help. Can you? I can't live like this . The surgery was supposed to make me better, I am worse and out of options.

  • SandraApril 11, 2013 at 6:51 pm

    I had Lumbar fusion at L5S1 in 1999, my Dr. said the pain would go away with surgery. Dr. said the procedure would include, the removal of the disc and taking bone from my hip putting bone into a cage to replace the disc. Still in serve pain I went back to Dr., he sent me for a CT. Dr. said I have permanent nerve damage and he put me in the hospital with a pain med IV. I Have been in severe chro[Show More]I had Lumbar fusion at L5S1 in 1999, my Dr. said the pain would go away with surgery. Dr. said the procedure would include, the removal of the disc and taking bone from my hip putting bone into a cage to replace the disc. Still in serve pain I went back to Dr., he sent me for a CT. Dr. said I have permanent nerve damage and he put me in the hospital with a pain med IV. I Have been in severe chronic PAIN, back locks up, burning, stabbing pain, numbness, tightness, stiffness, unable to sleep due to severe chronic pain, weakness, tingling and radiating pain, depression every sense. I found out later my spine was curved Please Help me!!!

  • CarlApril 3, 2013 at 3:15 pm

    I have had 2 neck surgeries, Im still in constant pain. I got a letter from a firm that y cages were recalled. Can someone please get back to me asap. I cant even work due to the pain. I need to know who to call to get something figured out.

  • ChrisMarch 15, 2013 at 4:47 am

    Had fracture l4,l5,s1. Had to insert a peek cage felt good for About 2 months then terrible pain down my leg again Dr said get cr-scan.went back to see dr, he said He has only seen this two other times in an old lady Heavy set man, and now me 47yrs old and fairly Fit.dr said a bone broke than was holding in the peek Cage, now the hardware. Is backing out, so now i had to go Through another surger[Show More]Had fracture l4,l5,s1. Had to insert a peek cage felt good for About 2 months then terrible pain down my leg again Dr said get cr-scan.went back to see dr, he said He has only seen this two other times in an old lady Heavy set man, and now me 47yrs old and fairly Fit.dr said a bone broke than was holding in the peek Cage, now the hardware. Is backing out, so now i had to go Through another surgery,dr had to remove all Hardware and took out the cage and didnt put the cage Back in had to use bigger screws,does anyone out There think i have a case,or does anyone know Of any cases over peek cages? Thanks

  • GloriaFebruary 25, 2013 at 10:58 pm

    Lumbar fusion c4-5 doctors stated to me pain and numbness would go away after healing process. Pain worse than ever numbness causes dangerous falls. Pain medication does not help. Surgery in 1997; this is 2013##!!##!##### Can not find any help. HELP ME PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!

  • DebbieFebruary 25, 2013 at 3:12 pm

    I had a spine fusion in June of 2005. I went into surgery thinking A cut would be in my hip for bone graft. I woke up a week later, And friend, husband and son informed me half way through my Surgery, my surgeon, came out and told my family a screw was stripped, and that he had sent his staff down for more tools because he had used All tools he had. Although I woke up a week later, there Wa[Show More]I had a spine fusion in June of 2005. I went into surgery thinking A cut would be in my hip for bone graft. I woke up a week later, And friend, husband and son informed me half way through my Surgery, my surgeon, came out and told my family a screw was stripped, and that he had sent his staff down for more tools because he had used All tools he had. Although I woke up a week later, there Was no cut in my hip, and the surgery report states "all screws were placed perfectly the first time. How do I know if Medtronic was used Here. Today I am totally disabled and feeling worse every day.

  • williamJanuary 14, 2013 at 6:48 am

    in 2011 i had lumbar fusion of L4L5 and sence have had nothing but problems . I t really floored me to read some of these troubles that some of these people have had .cause they are all the same as im having .i have terrible pains in lower back groin and hips. the surgen passed me on to a pain management dr and they have been suscribing pain meds sence. and wanting to give me injections all the t[Show More]in 2011 i had lumbar fusion of L4L5 and sence have had nothing but problems . I t really floored me to read some of these troubles that some of these people have had .cause they are all the same as im having .i have terrible pains in lower back groin and hips. the surgen passed me on to a pain management dr and they have been suscribing pain meds sence. and wanting to give me injections all the time . now drs say my right hip has to be replaced cause of avascular nacrosis ,caused by lack of blood going to the joint. i dont want a surgery .i just want part of my life back..

  • boNovember 14, 2012 at 5:28 pm

    i had a lumbar fusion n 02 the screw broke then just last wk underwent surgery 4 that. i need help n finding an attorney 2 take my case.

  • deniseNovember 9, 2012 at 1:02 pm

    i had a fusion between L3-L4-L5+S1 2nd surgery,1st surgery of Nov 1999, doctor kept telling me the pain would go away for 13 months, never did!!! Had 2nd July 2002 when the doctors, recommended by 1st surgeon, took piece of my right hip to fuse all vertebre together......10 yrs later still have the severe pain in back, now going down rt leg and hip, that was never hurt until the doctor took piece[Show More]i had a fusion between L3-L4-L5+S1 2nd surgery,1st surgery of Nov 1999, doctor kept telling me the pain would go away for 13 months, never did!!! Had 2nd July 2002 when the doctors, recommended by 1st surgeon, took piece of my right hip to fuse all vertebre together......10 yrs later still have the severe pain in back, now going down rt leg and hip, that was never hurt until the doctor took piece. Right foot totally numb, feels like nail going right thru middle of foot, something like you feel as frostbite. So much pain going from side of foot to middle of calf in muscles. Hip hurts constancly. Have been to other orthapedic surgeons, they say that they can do surgery but it won't help. Thing is that I never needed back surgery because chart stated "ABNORMAL AORTA FOR PERSON OF THIS AGE" see the cartiologist did bi-pass in Sept 02. Thing of all of this is that doctor put me in this pain instead of doing other tests as I had asked him about what my chart stated, as his answers to question 'could this be my problem' was that I was too young for aorta problems......I live in Ohio, never knew about the year we had for malpractice....this same 1st doctor just did operation on neighbor and left small opening on his spinal column, his neck filled with spinal fluid....how can we fight for OUR rights?

  • JasonNovember 8, 2012 at 2:33 am

    I had an antieor lumbar fusion in 2009 sinse thin I have incontince sweating severe pain in both legs severe pain in my groin the name of the cage is peek.I just found, out a few months ago thers a recall on peek but tne surgeon that done the surgery moved out of state so what do I do next

  • WillOctober 8, 2012 at 2:04 am

    How do I find out the type of hardware thet used when performing my operation? Had my c5 removed twice!

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