da Vinci Robot Litigation Weighs on Intuitive Projections
Intuitive Surgical has suffered quite a bit of negative publicity recently due to the problems with its da Vinci robotic surgery system and its component parts. Indeed, Intuitive Surgical even recalled its surgical shears in recent months when it came to light that there may have been a risk of serious injury to patients undergoing robotic surgery due to the risk of electrocution and tissue burns. Additionally, there have been instances in which doctors have been inadequately prepared to utilize the da Vinci robot in their surgeries, which has resulted in serious injury to patients.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of Intuitive Surgical, the possible defect in the robot’s surgical scissors, along with negative press and resistance from health insurers in approving the robot for hysterectomy procedures has put a significant damper on the growth of the company.* The company has indicated that its growth in 2013 may not be what it had expected. “It now sees sales growth in a range of 0% to 7%, down from its previous guidance range of 16% to 19%. The company expects procedures for the year to grow between 15% and 18%, down from its prior view of 20% to 23%.”*
Purely in terms of its sales, it is evident that the company’s numbers seem to be declining. For example, in the second quarter, Intuitive Surgical sold 143 da Vinci robotic systems.* This figure is down from 150 in the same time period a year ago.*If the company continues to face lawsuits and bad press, these numbers may fall even more.
Audet and Partners, LLP continues to pursue claims on behalf of individuals allegedly injured as a result of da Vinci robotic surgery. If you or someone you know has suffered an injury that may be related to the da Vinci surgical robot, please contact Audet & Partners, LLP by calling us toll free at 800.965.1461. Alternatively, please complete and submit our confidential inquiry form on the right side of this page. Please act now, since the law may limit your right to recovery if you delay.
* Intuitive Surgical Slashes Sales View on Robot Concerns (Wall Street Journal, July 18, 2013), http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20130718-714559.html
