Patients dependent on breathing devices are using recalled ventilators, BiPAP and CPAP machines as they still have months before a potential replacement, the Los Angeles Times reported June 23.
Last summer, Philips Respironics recalled millions of breathing devices, including ventilators, BiPAP and CPAP machines, citing a foam breakdown that can be accidentally inhaled. The FDA later labeled the recall with a class 1 sticker — the most serious type of recall because of the possibility of "death or serious injury" — and has reported 124 deaths "associated with the PE-PUR foam breakdown or suspected foam breakdown" since April 30.
People such as Rochester, N.Y., resident Diane Coleman have continued to use their machines: "It's not like I can stop using it," she told the LA Times.
A Philips spokesperson said repairing and replacing the recalled products will continue through "the end of 2022," the LA Times reported.
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