Can IVC Filters be Removed?
What You Need to Know

IVC Filter Lawsuit Overview

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter lawsuits involve allegations that certain manufacturers created defective devices that break, migrate, or perforate blood vessels, causing serious injuries to patients.

Over 15,000 adverse events have been reported to the FDA related to these medical devices.

The FDA has issued multiple safety communications warning healthcare providers about the risks associated with these blood clot prevention devices when left implanted long-term.

Latest IVC Filter Lawsuit Updates

• March 12, 2025 – Bard has agreed to settle approximately 95% of remaining IVC filter cases for an estimated $600 million, resolving thousands of claims in the multidistrict litigation. The settlement follows years of litigation in federal courts across Arizona, Indiana, and Pennsylvania.
• January 15, 2025 – Cook Medical finalizes $160 million settlement to resolve nearly 900 lawsuits alleging design defects in their Celect and Günther Tulip IVC filters. Settlement payments are expected to be distributed to qualifying plaintiffs by June 2025.
• November 8, 2024 – FDA issues updated safety communication recommending that retrievable IVC filters be removed within 29-60 days after implantation when the risk of pulmonary embolism has subsided. This strengthens previous warnings about long-term implantation risks.
• September 20, 2024 – Research published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery demonstrates a 43% complication rate in patients with long-term IVC filter implantation, providing critical evidence for ongoing litigation.

Related Article: IVC Filter Lawsuit Update

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) database, there have been over 15,000 adverse events reported related to IVC filters since 2005. These reports include:

• 4,600 instances of device migration
• 3,900 cases of filter fracture
• 2,800 reports of vessel perforation
• 1,100 incidents of filter embolization

The FDA issued safety communications in 2010, 2014, and 2024, recommending that retrievable filters be removed as soon as protection from pulmonary embolism is no longer needed.

IVC Filter Injuries & Side Effects

IVC filters have been linked to numerous serious complications that can lead to severe injury or death when the device malfunctions.

• Filter Migration: Device moves from original implantation site, potentially traveling to the heart or lungs
• Perforation: Filter prongs puncture the vena cava wall or surrounding organs
• Fracture: Device breaks apart, sending metal fragments through the bloodstream
• Embolization: Broken pieces travel to heart, lungs, or other vital organs
• Filter Thrombosis: Blood clots form on the filter, blocking blood flow
• Infection: Bacterial growth at implantation site leading to systemic infection
• Chronic Pain: Persistent discomfort due to filter complications

Do You Qualify for an IVC Filter Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an IVC filter lawsuit if:

• You received an IVC filter implant between 2003 and present
• You experienced serious complications including migration, fracture, perforation, or embolization
• Your injuries required medical intervention such as surgery, hospitalization, or ongoing treatment
• You can provide medical records documenting both the IVC filter implantation and subsequent complications
• The complications occurred within the statute of limitations for your state

Evidence Required for an IVC Filter Lawsuit

Building a successful IVC filter claim requires specific documentation:

• Medical records confirming filter implantation (operative reports, discharge summaries)
• Documentation of complications (imaging studies, hospital records)
• Manufacturer and model information of your specific device
• Treatment records for injuries caused by the filter
• Expert medical testimony linking your injuries to the device failure

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of defective IVC filters may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses including surgeries, hospitalizations, and ongoing care
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering from physical and emotional trauma
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of quality of life
• Punitive damages against manufacturers (in cases of gross negligence)

IVC Filter Recall Information

While no complete market withdrawal has occurred, several IVC filter models have been subject to FDA recalls:

• Bard Recovery Filter – Class 2 recall in 2005 due to detachment concerns
• Bard G2 Filter – Class 2 recall in 2010 for migration and fracture issues
• Cook Celect and Günther Tulip – Subject to FDA warning letters in 2019 regarding manufacturing processes
• Cordis OptEase – Class 2 recall in 2013 due to labeling issues and migration concerns

The FDA continues to monitor all retrievable IVC filters and has recommended that manufacturers provide additional data on device safety and effectiveness.

Statute of Limitations for IVC Filter Lawsuits

Time limits for filing an IVC filter lawsuit vary by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from when the injury was discovered or should have been discovered. Important considerations include:

• Most states allow 2-3 years from date of injury discovery
• Some states start the clock from the date of implantation
• Others begin counting from when complications were diagnosed
• The statute of limitations may be extended in cases where manufacturers concealed risks

Consulting with an experienced attorney promptly is essential to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

Related Articles:

• IVC Filters Compensation
• Injuries from IVC Filters
• Bard G2 IVC Filter Suit

See all medical device lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. Are IVC Filters Permanent?

Some IVC filters are designed to be permanent, while others are retrievable and should be removed once the risk of blood clots has subsided. Studies show that retrievable filters left in place longer than 3 months significantly increase complication risks. Manufacturers include Bard, Cook Medical, Cordis, and Boston Scientific.

2. What Are the Success Rates of IVC Filter Removal?

The success rate for IVC filter removal decreases significantly over time. When removed within 3 months of implantation, success rates exceed 90%. However, after 12 months, successful retrieval drops to approximately 60-70% due to device incorporation into vessel walls or other complications.

3. What Happens If I Leave an IVC Filter In?

Leaving a retrievable IVC filter implanted long-term substantially increases risks of perforation, migration, and fracture. Studies show complication rates of 30-40% after 5 years. The FDA recommends removal between 29-60 days after implantation once blood clot risk subsides.

4. Is IVC Filter Removal Painful?

IVC filter removal is typically performed under moderate sedation as an outpatient procedure and is not usually painful during the process. Recovery discomfort is generally minimal, with most patients resuming normal activities within 24 hours. Complications during removal occur in approximately 5% of cases.

5. How Long Does an IVC Filter Lawsuit Take?

Most IVC filter lawsuits resolve within 1-3 years, depending on case complexity and whether it settles or goes to trial. Multidistrict litigation cases often take longer due to the coordination of numerous claims. Recent settlements have accelerated resolution timeframes for many plaintiffs.

6. What Is the Average Settlement for IVC Filter Lawsuits?

Settlement amounts vary widely based on injury severity and individual circumstances. Reported settlements range from $10,000 for minor complications to over $3 million for cases involving death or permanent disability. The average compensation falls between $100,000 and $500,000 per case.

7. Which IVC Filters Are Most Problematic?

The Bard Recovery, Bard G2, Bard G2 Express, Cook Celect, and Günther Tulip filters have the highest reported complication rates. FDA data shows these devices account for approximately 75% of all adverse event reports related to IVC filters since 2005.

8. Can I File a Lawsuit If My IVC Filter Hasn’t Caused Problems Yet?

You generally cannot file a lawsuit without evidence of actual injury or complications. However, if your filter is one of the recalled models, you may be entitled to medical monitoring compensation. Consult with an attorney about your specific situation and options for potential future claims.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for IVC filter injuries. Most states restrict your right to file a claim to just 2-3 years from the date your injury was discovered.

Our experienced IVC filter attorneys offer:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Contingency-based representation – you pay nothing unless we win
• Nationwide representation with local expertise

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek justice for your IVC filter injuries. Contact our legal team today.

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