Man clutching chest in pain

Boston Scientific Defibrillator Lawsuit


Individuals who have received a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) and have experienced life-threatening complications may be eligible to file a lawsuit against Boston Scientific.

Lawsuits involving Boston Scientific defibrillators are being filed across the country alleging that defects may cause life-threatening cardiac arrest or death.

Currently, Bell Legal Group is investigating claims where:

  • the device improperly shocked;
  • the device failed to shock;
  • the device migrated;
  • the device fractured;
  • the device had oversensing or undersensing issues;
  • the device had to be surgically removed;
  • the device caused the user to suffer cardiac arrest;
  • the device caused the user’s death.

If an S-ICD manufactured by Boston Scientific has harmed you or a loved one, please reach out to our attorneys online or call us at 843-438-7480 to share your story.

Bell Legal Group is here to help!

Schedule your case evaluation with us

What is an S-ICD?


A subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) is a medical device that is implanted under the skin on the side of the chest below the armpit. S-ICDs are used to treat patients who have experienced life-threatening arrhythmias (ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation) and monitor the patient’s heart rhythm.  If the S-ICD detects an abnormal heart rhythm, the device sends a small electrical shock via an electrode to the heart, without having to touch the heart, to regain its normal rhythm. S-ICDs are different from traditional ICDs because the leads (ICD wires) that connect the device to the patient’s heart are implanted under the skin rather than through the patient’s veins.


Bell Legal Group is investigating claims of injuries and complications including but not limited to oversensing and undersensing pulses, failing to deliver life-shaving shocks, and the device fracturing for the following device models: 

  • Emblem S-ICD Device (Model # A209)
  • Emblem S-ICD Device (Model # A219)
  • Emblem S-ICD Electrode (Model # 3501)

Boston Scientific S-ICD Recall


In February, 2021 the FDA issued a recall of Boston Scientific’s Emblem S-ICD device after twenty-six injuries and one death were reported.

According to the FDA’s recall notice, the subcutaneous electrode in the Emblem S-ICD can fracture, rendering the device inoperable.

Likewise, on July 11, 2023, Boston Scientific recalled certain S-ICD devices due to a sensing issue caused by a software glitch.

Who Qualifies for a Boston Scientific S-ICD Potential Lawsuit?


Anyone (or a loved one) who had a Boston Scientific S-ICD implanted and experienced any of the following injuries or complications:

  • Improper shock;
  • Failure to shock;
  • Device migration;
  • Device fracture;
  • Oversensing or undersensing;
  • Surgical removal of the device;
  • Cardiac arrest; and
  • Death.

How Will I Know if my Claim Qualifies?


Contact Bell Legal Group to speak to our experienced staff about you or your loved one’s experience with an S-ICD.  An attorney will review your claim to determine if we may be able to proceed with filing a lawsuit on your behalf. 

Share your story with Bell Legal Groups’ attorneys so we may assess your situation and explain your legal options.

lawyer with envelope and gavel in foreground

What Could I Recover if a Boston Scientific S-ICD Lawsuit is Filed on My Behalf?


Every claim is unique, but people who ultimately file product liability lawsuits can potentially recover money for the following damages:

  • Past and future medical bills (medication, hospital stays, replacement surgery, home care, etc.)
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Funeral expenses (in the event of fatal injuries)

Fill out our contact form to get started—we are standing by to help!

J. Edward Bell III

Founder and Senior Partner

South Carolina attorney Ed Bell founded Bell Legal Group more than 40 years ago. With offices in Georgetown, SC, and Raleigh, NC, he focuses his practice on a variety of cases such as medical malpractice, personal injury, automobile safety and defects, product liability, environmental law, police misconduct, and prison abuse.

J.Edward Bell III

Awards & Accolades

Schedule your case evaluation with us

Georgetown, SC Office

219 Ridge St.
Georgetown, SC 29440
(843) 438-7480

Raleigh, NC Office

751 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 300
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 277-9299