Had an IVC Filter Implanted in You? Call Us Today to See If You Have a Lawsuit!
In August 2010, the Food & Drug Administration issued an Initial Communication on the Risk and Adverse events associated with long term use of inferior vena cava filters. The FDA found that over the prior 5 years, there were 921 such adverse events. While other manufacturers have also produced faulty products, Bard has produced the majority of the bad IVC filters. The top products that are the source of the problems are:
- The Bard Recovery filter
- The Bard G2 filter
- The Bard G2 Express filter
- The Cook Celect filter
- The Cook Gunther Tulip filter
- B Braun Tempofilter IVC (retrievable)
- Cordis OptEase IVC Filter
- ALN IVC Filter
- Rex Medical Option IVC Filter
After extensive investigation, the FDA reported in 2014 that most of these devices should be removed between the 29th and the 54th day after they were implanted, otherwise serious injuries can occur.
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The IVC filter is placed in the inferior vena cava, the largest vein in the body, to prevent pulmonary emboli (blood clots thrown to the lungs). The IVC filter is typically placed in hospital patients who are confined to the bed for a period of time, whether it be due to surgery or from injuries caused by a traumatic event. If a person is unable to sufficiently move, blood clots may form in the legs. This process is called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). If these clots travel to the lungs, the results can be life-threatening. The IVC filters were initially marketed to remain in the body for a specific period of time, and are thus considered to be “retrievable” products (meaning they can be removed).
The IVC filters are made of non-ferromagnetic materials, and can thus be seen on MRI images. The filters look like a spider and attach to the vena cava via hooks on their ends. The hooks are intended to allow the tissue to grow around them, adding to their stability.
Unfortunately, due to design flaws, some IVC filters have been associated with numerous incidents of fracturing and migration. The common occurrence is for the leg of the device to fracture off and migrate to the heart and lungs of the victim, causing serious injuries and even death. The most common warning signs that the IVC filter has failed include shortness of breath and chest pain. These symptoms typically result in an emergency room visit, where a CT or MRI study can determine if the IVC filter has fractured and migrated.
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If not treated in a timely fashion, the failure of the IVC filter systems can result in:
- Death
- Severe chest pain
- Pulmonary embolus
- Hemorrhage
- Respiratory problems
- Perforation of tissue, veins, and organs
- Emotional distress
Bard is an Arizona corporation. The company’s negligence has greatly impacted the lives of tens of thousands of people throughout the country, but its roots in Arizona make this lawsuit unique to our community. We have the experience, skill, and financial resources necessary to hold Bard accountable for its negligent conduct.
Lawsuits regarding the IVC filters have been assigned to a federal judge in Arizona. As a local Arizona law firm, Snyder & Wenner is uniquely equipped to investigate and to litigate these serious cases. We have been intimately involved in the research of the claims against the manufacturers, and have a knowledge base that other firms in our state do not.
For over 33 years, Snyder & Wenner has provided 5-star service to its clients and to the community. We pride ourselves on our accolades, such as being named a Top Law Firm in the country by US News & World Report, and on giving our clients the one-on-one representation and attention that they need and deserve. We offer free consultations to all victims of the IVC filter systems. Call us today for a free case evaluation at (602) 224-0005.