Published by Table Of Contents
- Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- IVC Filter Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for an Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit ?
- IVC Filter Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit
- FAQs
- 1. How do I know if my blood clot filter is defective?
- 2. What evidence do I need to support a blood clot filter lawsuit?
- 3. What types of compensation can I receive from a blood clot filter lawsuit?
- 4. How long do I have to file a lawsuit related to blood clot filter complications?
- 5. Which IVC filter brands are involved in lawsuits?
- 6. Do I need to have my filter removed to file a lawsuit?
- 7. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for an IVC filter lawsuit?
- 8. What if I don’t have symptoms but have an IVC filter?
- 9. How long do IVC filter lawsuits typically take?
- 10. Can family members file a lawsuit if a loved one died from IVC filter complications?
- Get a Free Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit Overview
IVC filter lawsuits involve claims against manufacturers of defective inferior vena cava filters that have caused serious injuries to patients.
The primary allegations against manufacturers include design defects that make the devices prone to fracture, migrate, and puncture internal organs.
The FDA received at least 921 adverse event reports associated with blood clot filters, including 328 cases of device migration, 146 cases of component breakage, and 70 cases of vena cava perforation.
In August 2010, the FDA issued warnings to physicians urging removal of these devices once patients are no longer at risk for venous thromboembolism to prevent serious complications.
Blood Clot Filter Brands
Our lawyers are accepting potential lawsuits for injuries associated with the following types of blood clot filters:
Bard IVC Filter
- Recovery (discontinued in 2005)
- G2
- G2 X
- G2 Express
- Eclipse
- Meridian
Cook IVC Filter
- Cook Gunther Tulip
- Cook Celect
Other Manufacturers
- ALN IVC Filter
- Argon Medical OptionELITE IVC Filter
- B. Braun IVC filters (Tempofilter IVC filter, Tempofilter II IVC filter, VenaTech LGM IVC filter and VenaTech LP IVC filter)
- Cordis OptEase IVC Filter
- Crux Vena Cava Filter
Latest Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit Updates
- October 15, 2014 – The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) ruled that all federal lawsuits involving Cook IVC filters will be centralized in the Southern District of Indiana before District Judge Richard L. Young. All complaints involve similar allegations that manufacturing defects with Cook vena cava filters make the devices likely to fracture, migrate and puncture internal organs [1].
- November 2013 – A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine examined the safety of Bard’s Peripheral Vascular Recovery and G2 blood clot filters. Dr. William Nicholson’s team at York Hospital evaluated 189 patients, finding that 16% of all filters fractured, with 25% of Recovery filters and 12% of G2 filters experiencing fractures. Critically, 71% of fragmented pieces traveled through the bloodstream to the heart [2].
- August 2010 – The FDA issued a blood clot filter warning to doctors urging removal of devices once patients are no longer at risk for venous thromboembolism, citing concerns about long-term risks including filter fracture, migration, embolization, and vena cava perforation [3].
FDA Reports and Statistics
According to FDA adverse event reports, blood clot filters have been associated with nearly 1,000 incidents of serious injuries.
The FDA’s database shows:
- 921 total adverse event reports associated with blood clot filters
- 328 cases (35.6%) involved device migration from the implant site
- 146 cases (15.9%) involved IVC filter components breaking loose
- 70 cases (7.6%) involved inferior vena cava puncture or perforation
- 56 cases (6.1%) involved complete filter fracture
The FDA has taken regulatory action by issuing safety communications warning healthcare providers about the risks of leaving retrievable IVC filters in place longer than necessary.
IVC Filter Injuries & Side Effects
Patients with defective IVC filters have reported a wide range of serious complications that can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.
- Filter Fracture: Complete breaking of the device with fragments potentially traveling through the bloodstream
- Organ Perforation: Puncture or serious damage to the heart, lungs, or vena cava requiring surgical intervention
- Internal Bleeding: Uncontrolled bleeding within the body that can lead to shock and organ failure
- Cardiac Complications: Including cardiac tamponade, pericardial tamponade, and ventricular tachycardia
- Vascular Issues: Lower limb deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism
- Infection: Serious infections at the implant site or throughout the body
- Chronic Pain: Constant and severe pain in the heart, chest, or elsewhere in the body
- Death: Fatal complications resulting from device failure
Do You Qualify for an Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit ?
You may qualify for a Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit if:
- You received an IVC filter implant between 2003 and present
- You experienced serious side effects including filter fracture, organ perforation, internal bleeding, cardiac complications, or device migration
- The injuries required medical treatment, surgery, or hospitalization
- You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the IVC filter
- You received one of the affected filter brands including Bard Recovery, G2, G2 X, G2 Express, Eclipse, Meridian, Cook Gunther Tulip, Cook Celect, or other manufacturer models
Evidence Required for an Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit
To support your Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit , you will need:
- Medical Records: Complete documentation of your IVC filter implantation procedure and subsequent medical care
- Imaging Studies: X-rays, CT scans, or fluoroscopy showing the placement and condition of the filter
- Product Information: Documentation identifying the specific brand and model of your IVC filter
- Injury Documentation: Medical records detailing any complications, additional surgeries, or treatments related to filter problems
- Expert Testimony: Medical expert opinions linking the filter to your health issues and establishing causation
Damages You Can Recover
Compensation in Blood Clot Filter Lawsuits may include:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future costs for surgeries, treatments, medications, and ongoing care
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work during recovery and treatment
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Punitive Damages: Additional damages if manufacturer negligence or misconduct is proven
IVC Filter Recall Information
While no formal recalls have been issued for IVC filters, several manufacturers have discontinued problematic models:
- Bard Recovery Filter: Discontinued in 2005 due to high fracture rates
- Multiple FDA Safety Communications: Issued warnings about long-term risks and proper removal procedures
Statute of Limitations for Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit
The time limit for filing a Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from one to three years from the date of injury or discovery of the injury.
Key considerations include:
- Most states allow 2-3 years from when you discovered or should have discovered the injury.
- Some states have specific medical device statutes that may extend or shorten these timeframes.
- The discovery rule often applies, meaning the clock starts when you reasonably should have known the filter caused your injuries.
- Consult with a lawyer immediately to protect your rights and ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my blood clot filter is defective?
Signs that your blood clot filter may be defective include chest pain, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, or symptoms associated with blood clots. If you suspect a problem, seek medical attention immediately.
2. What evidence do I need to support a blood clot filter lawsuit?
Key evidence may include medical records, imaging studies showing the filter’s placement and condition, documentation of any complications or injuries, and expert testimony that links the filter to your health issues.
3. What types of compensation can I receive from a blood clot filter lawsuit?
Compensation in a blood clot filter lawsuit may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages if negligence by the manufacturer is proven.
The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from one to three years from the date of injury or when the injury was discovered. It’s important to consult with a lawyer quickly to protect your rights.
5. Which IVC filter brands are involved in lawsuits?
Several brands are involved in IVC filter lawsuits, including Bard (Recovery, G2, G2 X, G2 Express, Eclipse, Meridian), Cook (Gunther Tulip, Celect), as well as filters from ALN, Argon Medical, B. Braun, Cordis, and Crux.
6. Do I need to have my filter removed to file a lawsuit?
No, you can file a lawsuit whether the filter has been removed or is still in place. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms, consult your doctor about the possibility of removal.
7. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for an IVC filter lawsuit?
Most IVC filter lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront. Attorney fees are only required if your case results in a successful outcome.
8. What if I don’t have symptoms but have an IVC filter?
Even without symptoms, you may still be eligible for legal action, particularly if you have a high-risk filter model. Regular monitoring and legal consultation are recommended to determine your options.
9. How long do IVC filter lawsuits typically take?
The duration of an IVC filter lawsuit can vary, ranging from several months to a few years, depending on factors such as case complexity, settlement negotiations, and whether the case proceeds to trial.
10. Can family members file a lawsuit if a loved one died from IVC filter complications?
Yes, surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit if their loved one passed away due to complications or defects related to an IVC filter.
Get a Free Blood Clot Filter Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Medical Device Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in IVC Filter Lawsuits.
We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new complications cases in all 50 states.
Our service offerings include:
- Free, confidential consultations with no obligation to proceed
- No upfront costs or fees to begin your case
- Payment only if we win your case through our contingency fee arrangement
- Nationwide representation for IVC filter victims in all 50 states
If you or a loved one has had an IVC filter implanted, you should contact our law firm immediately. Our lawyers are evaluating every individual case regardless of whether you have been injured or not.
So, if you have received an IVC filter implant, we would like to speak with you. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit against the IVC filter’s manufacturer and our lawyers can help.
References
- https://www.insd.uscourts.gov/mdl-case-information?utm_source
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/226212
- https://evtoday.com/news/fda-issues-statement-on-treatment-and-follow-up-regarding-ivc-filter-complications