Inferior vena cava filters, more commonly called IVC filters, are tiny medical devices designed to be surgically implanted in patients’ veins to catch blood clots before they enter the lungs. IVC filters are used to prevent pulmonary embolism, potentially fatal arterial blockage in the lung, but the filters themselves pose a serious risk of injury.
In fact, IVC filters have been linked to multiple medical complications, and hundreds of adverse reports have been filed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which has since issued warnings about the devices.
Austin IVC Filters Litigation Attorney
The dangers associated with IVC filters are well documented. The FDA has warned that the devices, which are supposed to be retrievable after being implanted, should be removed from the body between 29 and 54 days after the surgical procedure, or as soon as the patient is no longer at risk of a blot clot.
However, for some patients the filters remained in the body much longer than 54 days, in some cases for years, resulting in serious harm. Patients’ lawsuits have linked faulty IVC filters to numerous medical problems, including:
- Punctured blood vessels
- Punctured organs
- Filters’ legs breaking off
- Filters migrating to other parts of the body
- Embolisms despite the use of IVC filters
Holding Medical Device Manufacturers Accountable
Makers of IVC filters are currently being sued in hundreds of lawsuits. Patients say the devices were poorly designed and manufactured, and that the manufacturers were negligent and failed to warn about the dangers.
The following companies are among the most prominent medical device manufacturers being sued:
- Cook Medical
- C.R. Bard
- Boston Scientific
Are There Non-Life Threatening Risks Posed by IVC Filters?
Migrating IVC filters pose several risks. These include:
- Chest Pain
- Heart Palpitations/Arrhythmia
- Shortness of Breath
- Dizziness and Confusion
- Hypotension
- Nausea
These risks are in addition to the potentially fatal dangers, such as DVT and pulmonary embolism, which may accompany IVC filter migration
Have There Been IVC Filter Recalls?
There have been several major IVC filter recalls involving large medical manufacturers, including C.R. Bard and Cook Medical. However, a recall does not protect a company from liability if its product causes serious or fatal harm. No matter the recall status of your IVC filter, if you have been injured, you may be entitled to hold the negligent party accountable and seek compensation for all related damages.
How Long do I Have to File an IVC Filter Lawsuit?
In Texas, you have two years to file a personal injury claim following an injury from an IVC filter. However, we encourage you to take action before the statute of limitations nears. Taking swift action can improve your chances of securing compensation and help payment get to you faster.
What Kinds of Damages Can I Seek in an IVC Filter Lawsuit?
Each case is unique, but damages commonly sought in defective IVC filter claims include:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Personal Pain and Suffering
The best way to learn what your claim may be worth is through a one-on-one consultation at our San Antonio or Austin office. During this meeting, we will carefully evaluate your claim, review any offers you may have received from insurance, and help you determine the best path forward. Remember, you cannot file a lawsuit once you accept an insurance offer. Talk to us before accepting an offer to make sure you are not taking less than you are due.
How can I File an IVC Filter Lawsuit?
The best way to file a product liability claim is with the help of a personal injury lawyer. You can attempt to take on a medical device manufacturer on your own, but you will be up against their insurers and legal teams. Have an experienced legal team fight for your rights is a safer way to protect your best interests. If an IVC filter has injured you or lost a loved one to a dangerous medical device, we are here to listen and help. Call us for a complimentary case review today to learn more.
Contact Shaw Cowart LLP If You or a Loved One Has Been Harmed by an IVC Filter
Companies that manufacture medical devices tend to have significant resources to defend against product liability claims. Consequently, injured patients need experienced and aggressive legal representation, even when it’s clear that an injury or death resulted from a faulty medical device.
At Shaw Cowart LLP, we have the experience, skill and resources to take on large manufacturers and obtain optimal results for our clients. You can fill out our online consultation form or call our Austin law office at 512-499-8900. We understand what you’re going through, and we can help.