Calif. Federal Judge Dismisses Spinal Implant Action, Says Germany is Most Appropriate Forum

SAN JOSE, Calif. — A California federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against the manufacturer of a spinal implant, ruling that Germany is the most appropriate forum for the action because the majority of key witnesses, including the implanting surgeons and treating physicians are in Germany.

On April 19, Judge Edward Davila of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California further noted that the majority of the evidence, including plaintiffs’ medical histories, rules governing the implantation of the medical devices in Germany, and damages information, is located in Germany.

In 2007, Silvana Kraftschik underwent spinal surgery …