Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are small, cage-like devices that are fitted in the vena cava to prevent blood clots from reaching the lungs and causing a pulmonary embolism. While these devices were designed to help prevent clotting events in certain patients, countless reported cases have shown that these devices can be potentially deadly over time.
IVC filters can fracture or malfunction, with the fractured pieces migrating to the heart or lungs. It is estimated that approximately 40 percent of all IVC filters will facture within six years of being implanted. These faulty devices have been known to cause strokes, heart attacks and punctured blood vessels in their hosts.
Possibly the most disturbing aspect is that the manufacturers of these devices likely knew that they were potentially dangerous, yet still decided to push their use. Originally designed to be permanent fixtures, a market opportunity in the early 2000s led manufacturers to redesign them as “temporary,” making changes to their design that would enable doctors to remove them with greater ease. While the original design has a miniscule failure rate, this redesign unfortunately increased the chances of failure and made the devices more dangerous.
What Does the FDA Have to Say about IVC Filters?
The FDA has issued several different warnings regarding these devices since 2010, including statements advocating for their removal and accusations against manufacturer CR Bard for marketing unapproved filters that failed to conform to safety standards. CR Bard and Cook Medical have come under heavy legal fire for their negligence, resulting in major settlements being awarded to victims of their faulty IVC filters.
If you or a loved one have been fitted with an IVC filter, it is imperative that you consult with your doctor and contact a Raleigh dangerous drugs injury attorney immediately. With experienced legal help from Whitley Law Firm, you may be able to recover considerable damages, including:
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death compensation
Don’t let careless medical suppliers get away with harming countless individuals. At Whitley Law Firm, we will work hard to hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries.
