Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit Overview

Multiple class action lawsuits have been filed against C.R. Bard concerning its inferior vena cava (IVC) filters, with cases transferred to federal court due to the scope of claims.

Primary allegations against Bard include that the company knew or should have known about the devices’ potential to cause serious complications but failed to warn patients and medical professionals about these risks.

An estimated 100,000 Bard IVC filters have been implanted in patients nationwide, with many experiencing life-threatening complications when filter components break and migrate to vital organs.

These Bard IVC filter lawsuits seek compensation for ongoing medical monitoring and treatment of complications caused by defective devices.

What Are IVC Filters?

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are medical devices designed to prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs by catching them in a cage-like structure placed in the large vein that returns blood to the heart [1].

These devices are intended to be temporary and removable once the threat of blood clots has passed, but many physicians have allowed filters to remain permanently in place, leading to increased complication risks.

Latest Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit Updates

• March 21, 2013 – Two studies and an editorial published in JAMA Internal Medicine raised serious questions about IVC filter placement, indicating lack of evidence for device effectiveness and uncertainty about proper usage protocols.
• 2012-2013 – Florida class action lawsuit filed in July 2012 on behalf of Samantha Bouldry, Eula Huff, Sandra Lorenz, and Janet Roberts was transferred from Palm Beach County Circuit Court to U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, indicating the scope involves over 100 plaintiffs with claims exceeding $5 million.
• 2012-2013 – Additional Bard Meridian IVC filter class action lawsuits filed in Pennsylvania and California courts with nearly identical allegations regarding the company’s failure to warn about device fracture and migration risks.

FDA Reports and Statistics

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has documented significant safety concerns regarding IVC filters, particularly Bard devices:

• Approximately 100,000 Bard IVC filters have been implanted in patients across the United States.
• Multiple class action lawsuits filed in Florida, Pennsylvania, and California courts.
• Federal court transfer indicates claims exceed $5 million with over 100 affected patients.
• JAMA Internal Medicine studies published in 2013 questioned device effectiveness and proper usage.
• Device complications include fracture of filter legs/struts and migration to vital organs.

Bard IVC Filter Injuries & Side Effects

Bard IVC filter complications have resulted in serious, potentially life-threatening injuries when device components break and migrate throughout the body.

• Device Fracture: Breaking of filter legs or struts that can travel to other parts of the body.
• Migration to Vital Organs: Broken filter components traveling to the lungs, heart, or other critical organs.
• Organ Perforation: Sharp filter fragments puncturing internal organs and blood vessels.
• Embolism Complications: Paradoxically, the devices meant to prevent blood clots can cause new blockages.
• Retrieval Difficulties: Inability to safely remove devices that were designed to be temporary.

Do You Qualify for a Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Bard IVC filter lawsuit if:

• You received a Bard IVC filter implant between 2000 and present.
• You experienced serious side effects including device fracture, migration, or organ perforation.
• The complications required medical treatment, additional surgery, or hospitalization.
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Bard IVC filter.
• You require ongoing medical monitoring even without current symptoms.

Evidence Required for a Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit

To build a strong Bard IVC filter lawsuit, you will need:

• Medical records documenting IVC filter implantation and complications.
• Imaging studies showing device fracture, migration, or positioning problems.
• Device identification information including model number and manufacturer.
• Documentation of surgical procedures related to device complications.
• Expert medical testimony establishing defect and causation.

Damages You Can Recover

Successful Bard IVC filter lawsuits may result in compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatment of device complications.
• Ongoing medical monitoring costs to ensure device integrity.
• Lost wages due to inability to work during treatment.
• Pain and suffering from device-related injuries.
• Punitive damages for manufacturer’s failure to warn.

Statute of Limitations for Bard IVC Filter Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Bard IVC filter lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 2-6 years from the date of injury discovery.

Given that device complications may not manifest until years after implantation, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

Related Articles:

• Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit Florida
• Bard Recovery IVC Filter Class Action Lawsuit
• IVC Filter Lawsuit Update
• Bard Meridian IVC Filter Lawsuit

FAQs

1. What is the difference between retrievable and permanent IVC filters?

Retrievable IVC filters are designed to be temporary and removable once the blood clot risk has passed, while permanent filters are intended to remain in place indefinitely. Many retrievable filters have been left in place longer than recommended, increasing complication risks.

2. How do I know if I have a Bard IVC filter?

Check your medical records from the procedure, contact the hospital where the device was implanted, or request imaging studies. Your doctor should be able to identify the manufacturer and model of your IVC filter.

3. Can I join a class action lawsuit for my Bard IVC filter injury?

While class action lawsuits have been filed, many IVC filter cases are handled individually due to the unique nature of each person’s injuries and complications. An attorney can help determine the best approach for your specific situation.

4. What if I haven’t experienced complications yet but have a Bard IVC filter?

You may still be eligible for compensation related to medical monitoring costs, as ongoing surveillance is often required to detect potential device fracture or migration before serious complications occur.

5. How long do IVC filter lawsuits typically take to resolve?

IVC filter lawsuits can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve, depending on case complexity, the severity of injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial.

6. Are there other IVC filter manufacturers besides Bard facing lawsuits?

Yes, other manufacturers including Cook Medical have also faced lawsuits related to IVC filter complications. Each manufacturer’s devices may have different defect patterns and legal considerations.

7. What should I do if I suspect my IVC filter has fractured or migrated?

Seek immediate medical attention and request imaging studies to assess the device’s integrity and position. Contact an attorney experienced in IVC filter litigation to discuss your legal options.

See all related medical device lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get a Free Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Bard IVC filter complications.

Most states have statutes of limitations ranging from 2-6 years from the date of injury discovery, making it crucial to act quickly to preserve your legal rights and pursue compensation.

The Medical Device Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our services
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation
• Nationwide representation in all 50 states

Don’t delay – contact our experienced legal team today to discuss your Bard IVC filter case and protect your right to compensation.

Reference:

1. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/inferior-vena-cava-ivc-filter-placement