Power Morcellators

During many types of laparoscopic surgery, tissue is morcellated, or sliced up into smaller pieces so that it can be removed through a small incision. The tool that performs this operation is known as a power morcellator. Such tools have been used in laparoscopic surgery since 1993, primarily in operations to remove the uterus.

Medical professionals have long expressed concerns about the impact of morcellators on other organs, such as the bowels, pancreas, spleen, bladder and other vascular structures. In addition, because of concerns that power morcellators may spread certain cancers, the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in April 2014, recommending that doctors not use the tool in uterine procedures.

After the FDA issued another warning about power morcellators in 2014, the manufacturer of one of the devices, Johnson & Johnson, took its product off the market. According to FDA research, approximately one in every 350 patients who had a uterine laparoscopic procedure using a power morcellator developed some type of cancer.

If you or someone you love has contracted cancer after laparoscopic surgery using a power morcellator, GetLegal has the tools and resources to help you find skilled legal representation to protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory, look for your geographic location and find the best lawyer for your situation.