Dialysis supply manufacturer sued on wrongful death claims

GRETNA – A Jefferson Parish man is suing a number of medical companies and care providers over the death of his wife during her dialysis treatment.

Kerry LeBlanc filed suit against Fresenius USA Manufacturing Inc., Fresenius USA Inc., Fresenius USA Marketing, Fresenius Medical Care Holdings Inc., Fresenius Medical Care Capital City LLC, Fresenius Medical Care Louisiana Dialysis Group LLC, Fresenius Medical Care Rx LLC, Specialtycare Cardiovascular Resources Inc., Bio-Medial Applications of Louisiana Inc., Dr. Trae Le and Ann Laughlin in the 24th Judicial District Court on Dec. 21. LeBlanc claims that his wife, Ann LeBlanc, died due to a medical concentrate used in dialysis treatment.

The plaintiff claims the product GranuFlo, which is prescribed for treatment of acute and chronic renal failure dialysis treatment, was manufactured and sold by the Fresenius group of companies. LeBlanc asserts that when his wife receiving dialysis treatment at Bio-Medial Applications in Marrero with GranuFlo she had a heart attack and died. The plaintiff claims that the GranuFlo product was defective and that many people who have been treated with it have suffered heart attacks.

The manufacturer of the allegedly defective product is accused of failing to inform those using the product that it presented unreasonably dangerous risks and failing to take into account a 2004 medical study that showed the product resulted in adverse reactions.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for conscious pain and suffering, wrongful death, pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, costs and expenses and reasonable attorney’s fees.

LeBlanc is represented by Richard J. Arsenault of Alexandria-based Neblett, Beard & Arsenault.

The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan Jr.

Case no. 722-313.