Tort Report (St. Jude Eon and Eon Mini IPG Recall)

by Ben Dozier | December 19, 2012

St. Jude Eon and Eon Mini IPG Recall

St. Jude Medical’s Eon and Eon Mini are battery-powered implantable pulse generators (IPGs) used to manage severe pain. The devices, often implanted into patients with chronic back pain, send electrical impulses that stimulate the spinal cord. As a result, severe pain is replaced with a mild tingling sensation.

A long-life rechargeable battery is marketed as a key feature of the Eon implants. However, the Eon and Eon Mini were recalled following reports of battery defects, premature battery failure, and excessive battery heat while recharging. Some patients have reported uncomfortable or intolerable temperature elevations while recharging Eon IPGs. In certain cases, a revision surgery or removal procedure has been necessary. Read more.

For a complete list of the torts we’re tracking, see the Mass Torts Matrix.