By Desiree Housek, Staff Writer
The Recovery IVC filter has been linked to at least 30 deaths and 300 injuries, due to the filter breaking apart or falling out of place. If you or a loved one has experienced serious complications after using an IVC filter, you may be entitled to compensation. Here are some of the most common questions in regards to IVC Filters and IVC filter lawsuits.
What is an IVC Filter?
The Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) is a major vein in the body that is responsible for carrying blood from the lower body into the heart. An IVC filter is a wire device that is inserted into the vein of those who are considered to be at an increased risk of pulmonary embolism.
The purpose of the filter is to prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs, heart, or brain by catching them in the bloodstream and allowing them to break down over time.
Why is there an IVC Filter lawsuit?
Plaintiffs in IVC filter lawsuits claim that C.R. Bard, the manufacturer of the IVC filter devices, failed to adequately warn patients of physicians of the increased risk of the filter breaking and sending metal fragments moving through the body, potentially resulting in the damaging of an organ.
The lawsuits also allege that Bard not only hid their own findings that the filters were dangerous, but they also attained FDA approval by forging an employee’s signature on an FDA application.
What filters are included in the IVC Filter lawsuits?
The most common product involved in the IVC filter lawsuits include:
- The Bard Recovery filter
- The Bard G2 Express filter
- The Bard G2 filter
- The Cook Celect filter
- The Cook Gunther Tulip filter
Additionally, the following IVC filters have been found to cause problems as well:
- Bard Eclipse
- Bard Meridian
- Bard Denali
What risks are associated with IVC filters?
The most serious risk associated with the IVC filter is the device breaking apart or falling out of place, sending metal fragments through the body.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention as the device may have broken and traveled to the heart or lungs:
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Lightheadedness
- Neck Pain
- Nausea
- Heart Rhythm Problems
- Hypotension
- Hemorrhaging or Internal Bleeding
- Shortness of Breath
Serious complications may lead to:
- Hemorrhaging
- Pulmonary Embolism
- Stroke
- Death
Who can make an IVC filter claim?
If you have suffered serious IVC filter complications, or if you are the family member of someone who has, you may file a claim or pursue litigation.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Each state has a statute of limitations on when a claim must be filed. If a claim is not filed by the given time limitation, an injured person will no longer be permitted to bring a lawsuit against the company and/or person responsible.
If you have suffered serious complications from the use of an IVC filter, it is important to speak with an experienced defective medical device attorney to better understand when you have to file a claim by, and better understand your rights.
Has the IVC filter been recalled?
As the investigation into the Bard’s IVC blood clot filter is still in the early stages of investigation, no recall has been issued. The FDA has issued two warnings regarding the device, recommending that patients who are unable to take an anticoagulant only use the IVC filter temporarily. For those who have already received an IVC filter, the FDA recommends speaking with their physician to determine if the device has moved or broken apart, and whether or not the device should be removed.
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