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Article: Spinal groups suffer back-breaking suits. (medical groups North American Spine Society, Scoliosis Research Academy, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and American Assn. of Neurological Surgeons)
- Article from:
- Crain's Chicago Business
- Article date:
- March 31, 1997
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 1997 Crain Communications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Did associations tout bum device or air research?
Four local medical associations are trying to shield themselves from hundreds of lawsuits filed in a massive product-liability battle over a device used in spine surgery.
At issue is whether the groups acted improperly in sponsoring meetings and publishing articles in which the controversial device - called the pedicle screw - was discussed.
The societies contend it's a matter of free speech, and cite the need to disseminate information about medical options. Plaintiffs have charged them with nothing less than a nationwide conspiracy to illegally market an unsafe medical device.
None of the 800 ...