More than 3,700 complaints were hidden about CPAP machines that could cause dangerous particles to lodge in user's airways, according to a recent ProPublica investigation, and now a U.S. senator is calling on federal prosecutors to take immediate action against Philips Respironics.
“Philips brazenly turned a blind eye to its dangerous defective machines all in the name of profit," Connecticut Democrat Richard Blumenthal said in a statement. “Philips knew about the serious risks of its breathing machines for years, but inexcusably, withheld critical information."
His call for the DOJ to get involved comes just days after the investigation revealed the company 'buried more than 3,700 complaints about the faulty devices over 11 years before launching a massive recall in 2021.'
Philips eventually acknowledged that foam inside the devices could break down in heat and release material into the air paths of the machines.
By then, ProPublica reported, the company had sold and delivered millions of the potentially dangerous devices to infants, the elderly, COVID-19 patients and at least 700,000 veterans.
In a statement, Philips said it regrets any “distress and concern” and is cooperating with prosecutors.
Federal law requires manufacturers to submit reports about device malfunctions and injuries to users within 30 days of receipt. Violating that law can bring penalties against medical device companies that include monetary damages, federal sanctions and criminal charges.