Hitachi’s Defective MRI

DiCello Levitt secured a $5.7 million jury verdict after Hitachi sold a defective medical device under false pretenses.

Callout image for Hitachi case reads The multimillion-dollar verdict highlighted deceptive practices in the medical imaging resale market—and held a major manufacturer accountable.

In February 2024, a jury in Cleveland, Ohio, awarded more than $5.7 million in damages to Bridgeway Diagnostics and its founder, Dr. Jason Hoover, after Hitachi delivered a defective MRI system that failed to meet contract specifications. The verdict included $3.7 million in compensatory damages and $2 million in punitive damages.

What Happened?

Bridgeway purchased what was promised to be a like-new, refurbished MRI system with the newest-generation magnet—a critical component that impacts imaging quality. Instead, Hitachi supplied an older, lower-quality system that lacked the promised capabilities. When Dr. Hoover raised concerns, Hitachi attempted to conceal the true nature of the machine, breaching its contract with Bridgeway and committing fraud.

The faulty MRI system disrupted Bridgeway’s business and compromised its ability to provide timely diagnostic care to patients.

Trial and Industry Impact

During trial preparation, DiCello Levitt conducted extensive focus groups to shape its courtroom presentation and winning strategy. At trial, the firm introduced evidence showing that Hitachi misrepresented the age and quality of the equipment and then attempted to cover up the deception.

The case spotlighted broader issues in the diagnostic equipment industry, where refurbished machines are often resold without transparency about their true age or functionality. The verdict is likely to encourage greater accountability in how medical imaging devices are marketed and sold.

This case is Bridgeway Diagnostics LLC v. Hitachi Healthcare Americas Corporation, et al. The trial team was led by Peter Soldato and Justin Abbarno and included Ken Abbarno and Justin Hawal.

For more information on this and other major cases, join our mailing list.