IVC filters are small devices inserted into the inferior vena cava via access to the jugular or femoral vein. The umbrella-like filter shape allows the device to catch clots traveling through the bloodstream before they can reach vulnerable organs, preventing complications such as pulmonary embolism. However, the filters are not as safe as they are held out to be by their manufacturers.
IVC filters can break off and migrate into the heart, lungs and other vital organs and can cause fatal injuries.
The IVC filters most often seen in the litigation include the Bard Recovery filter, Bard G2 filter, Bard G2 Express filter, Bard Eclipse, Bard Merdian, Bard Denali IVC, Cook Gunther Tulip filter, Cook Celect filter and Rex/Argon Option filter.
At least 900 adverse event reports have been received by the FDA involving complications from IVC filters. One of the most common complaints is of the filter, or a piece of the filter, breaking off and migrating through the patient’s body. Perforation and tilting of the device has also been reported, and in many cases result in the inability to retrieve the device safely.
In August 2015, NBC Nightly News aired a two-part special on the Bard Recovery IVC filter, one of the first retrievable devices on the market. In their report, NBC detailed failures in reporting known adverse events (including deaths), suppression of internal-data exhibiting how dangerous the devices are compared to competitors, and that FDA clearance was based on a forged document.
IVC Injuries Include:
• IVC filter migration
• IVC filter fracture
• IVC filter perforation
• Tilting of the IVC filter
• The inability to retrieve the IVC filter
• Pulmonary embolism
• Compromised respiration
• Stroke
• Death
If you or a loved one have suffered an injury associated with an IVC filter, please contact The D’Onofrio Firm, LLC, at once.