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What Are the Problems with a Laparoscopic Power Morcellator?

Minimally invasive surgeries use a medical device called a Laparoscopic power morcellator (LPM). However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discourages healthcare professionals from using this device for some procedures, because it could cause the spread of cancer in patients.

How Does a Power Morcellator Work?

An LPM can be used for a wide range of procedures. It works by removing large masses of tissue in small pieces. This type of surgery requires only small incisions.

If an LPM is used for a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or myomectomy (removal of the uterine fibroids) in women, there is a risk of spreading undetected cancerous tissues such as uterine sarcomas.

Although there are many treatment options for uterine fibroids, women choose the LPM procedure because it promises a shorter recovery time and reduced risk of infection.

The FDA estimates 1 in 350 women who undergo a hysterectomy or myomectomy for treatment of uterine fibroids has a uterine sarcoma. In these cases, an LPM can cause the unsuspecting cancerous tissue to spread throughout the body.

Zoll & Kranz, LLC represents people who have been harmed by defective medical devices such as the power morcellator. If you have sustained an injury from this device, please contact our firm at (888)841-9623.

Zoll & Kranz, LLC – Defective Medical Drug and Device Lawyers

Source: http://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/safety/alertsandnotices/ucm393576.htm