The FDA has recently approved a single-chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) that has the ability to sense the atrial one lead.

This new system was manufactured by Biotronik and is called the Lumax 740 DX system. This system has the ability to aid in “atrial sensing” for certain patients without having to add to the time it takes to implant the system, which also helps to reduce the risks involved that usually occur with a dedicated atrial-sensing lead. This new system includes software that “can discriminate between supraventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter in the atrial signals from the one lead,” according to the company. So far, the system is already being used in Europe and Japan, Biotronik says.

Atrial fibrillation is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and is treated with numerous methods, including catheter ablations and prescription drugs. However, AF increases a patient’s likelihood of experiencing a stroke dramatically, which is why drugs like Multaq are used. But Multaq has been found to be too dangerous for use because of the side effects linked to it. Some of the serious side effects linked to Multaq include a worsening of the heart condition, liver failure, lung disease and pulmonary toxicity. It is for this reason that Multaq is not recommended by the FDA for use unless all other methods fail first.

So far, the approval of this new ICD system appears promising. However, as with all treatments for AF, it likely has its own group of complications linked to it. Doctors and patients should be well-advised of the complications before using the new ICD system.

If you or a loved one has suffered from liver failure, a worsening of the heart condition, lung disease or pulmonary toxicity after taking Multaq, contact attorney Greg Jones for a free consultation today. I am experienced at fighting Multaq lawsuits and may be able to help you recover money for your injuries.