What is the issue with IVC filters?
IVC filters are implanted into the inferior vena cava vein of patients with deep vein thrombosis, and are intended to be used temporarily to block dangerous blood clots—known as pulmonary embolisms—from reaching a patient’s lungs. However, the filters have become the subject of hundreds of FDA adverse effect warnings and multiple lawsuits after patients have experienced harmful and, at times, fatal complications.
One of the most common complications that patients have experienced is fracturing and migration of the filter. Other complications include damage to veins from perforation, damage to organs from punctures, failing to prevent blood clots from reaching the lungs, filter migration, filter fracturing, internal bleeding, chest pain, respiratory issues, and inability to remove the filter.
Reports suggest that the manufacturers knew.
In 2015, NBC news published a report regarding the fatal complications associated with the use of the Bard Recovery filters. The report alleged that C.R. Bard knew of the dangerous risks that its device posed to consumers, yet did not warn physicians and patients or issue a recall for the device. A follow-up report by NBC stated that Bard later developed a replacement G2 Filter which, according to internal documents and FDA reports, had more reported complications than any other competing device.
Are there lawsuits stemming from these allegations?
Patients who have experienced dangerous complications as a result of the IVC filters have filed claims against device manufacturers C.R. Bard and Cook Medical. The claims allege that the manufacturers failed to warn patients and physicians of the risks related to the device, and that the device was designed irresponsibly and caused avoidable complications. The lawsuits also claim that the manufacturers were negligent in the representation of the device. The specific devices listed in the legal filings are:
- The Bard Recovery filter
- The Bard G2 filter
- The Bard G2 Express filter
- The Cook Gunther Tulip filter
- The Cook Celect filter
What can you do?
If you have experienced medical issues and you have undergone IVC filter implantation, it is important that you contact your physician. If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a temporary IVC filter implant, contact the experienced medical device liability attorneys at the Law Offices of Peter Angelos to schedule a review of your claims.