Filshie Clip Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Filshie Clip Lawsuit Overview

Filshie Clip lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers CooperCompanies and Utah Medical Products for failing to adequately warn women about the serious risks associated with these devices. The primary allegations include that manufacturers misrepresented Filshie Clips as safe and effective while downplaying potential complications such as device migration, tissue perforation, and chronic pain. Several lawsuits have been filed claiming manufacturers knew about these risks but failed to properly inform patients. Many women have suffered complications that went undiagnosed for years because doctors did not suspect the clips as the source of the problem.

Quick Facts About Filshie Clip Lawsuits

• Filshie Clips are silicone-lined, titanium clamps used for permanent birth control.
• Reports show they can migrate, break, or cause chronic pain and serious complications.
• Many women were never properly informed that Filshie Clips were used in their sterilization.
• Lawsuits allege manufacturers failed to warn patients of these risks.
• If you had a Filshie Clip and experienced complications, you may be entitled to compensation.

Latest Filshie Clip Lawsuit Updates

January 2022 – The case Rebando et al v. CooperSurgical, Inc. et al. was filed in Florida Federal Court Middle District (Case No. 6:22-cv-00177) [1]. Plaintiffs claim manufacturers failed to disclose risks of device migration and other serious complications, seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and damages related to the device’s failure [2].

1996 – Femcare Ltd. advised the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in seeking approval to market the Filshie Clip that the device experienced “migration or expulsion” at a rate of 0.13%. However, clinical trial data revealed higher rates of complications than initially reported [3].

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to FDA submissions, Filshie Clips have been used for sterilization since 1981. Clinical trial data shows concerning patterns of complications:

“Of the 5454 women who were enrolled in the ten prospective FHI clinical trials reported in the submission and who were sterilized using Filshie Clip tubal occlusion system, eight (0.1%) women were reported to have experienced instances of clip migration, clip expulsion, or foreign body reaction,” the case report said. “Three instances of apparently asymptomatic migration of the clip were observed as incidental findings, but the frequency of this event is unknown.”

Case reports have found that women reporting heavy periods increased from 9% before surgery to 35% after surgery involving Filshie Clips.

Filshie Clip Injuries & Side Effects

Women who have had Filshie Clips implanted have reported severe pain, tissue perforation, and device migration. In many cases, these issues went undiagnosed for years because doctors did not suspect the clips as the source of the problem.

• Migration of the device: Into the lungs, abdominal wall, uterus, or groin
• Tissue perforation: Leading to infections, internal bleeding, and other damage
• Chronic abdominal or pelvic pain: Persistent pain requiring ongoing treatment
• Post-Tubal Ligation Syndrome: Hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, severe pain
• Device expulsion: Through the urethra
• Unintended pregnancy: Due to device failure

Women experiencing these complications often undergo multiple procedures to remove the migrated clips or repair the damage they have caused.

Understanding Filshie Clips and Their Dangers

How Do Filshie Clips Work?

Filshie Clips have been used for sterilization since 1981. They function by clamping the fallopian tubes, cutting off the blood supply, and eventually causing the tubes to separate. This prevents eggs and sperm from meeting, permanently preventing pregnancy.

Unfortunately, what was marketed as a simple and minimally invasive procedure has caused severe, long-term health issues for many women.

What’s Wrong With Filshie Clips?

Women who have had Filshie Clips implanted have reported severe pain, tissue perforation, and device migration. In many cases, these issues went undiagnosed for years because doctors did not suspect the clips as the source of the problem.

Additionally, many women were not informed that Filshie Clips were being used in their sterilization, making it difficult to identify the cause of their symptoms. Those who did know were often misled about the potential risks and complications.

Related Article: Medical Device Cases

Related Article: IUD Perforation Symptoms

Filshie Clip Migration

Case reports have found that Filshie Clips can migrate after being implanted, causing chronic abdominal pain and hernias. Some women who have suffered Filshie Clip migration have reported having heavier and sometimes painful periods after surgery on their fallopian tubes. The number of women reporting heavy periods increased from 9% before surgery to 35% after surgery.

In 1996, Femcare Ltd. advised the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in seeking approval to market the Filshie Clip that the device experienced “migration or expulsion” (“adverse effect”) at a rate of 0.13%.

“Of the 5454 women who were enrolled in the ten prospective FHI clinical trials reported in the submission and who were sterilized using Filshie Clip tubal occlusion system, eight (0.1%) women were reported to have experienced instances of clip migration, clip expulsion, or foreign body reaction,” the case report said. “Three instances of apparently asymptomatic migration of the clip were observed as incidental findings, but the frequency of this event is unknown.”

Do You Qualify for a Filshie Clip Lawsuit?

Take This Quick Assessment:

• Have you experienced unexplained pelvic or abdominal pain since your procedure?
• Were you unaware that Filshie Clips were used in your sterilization?
• Has your doctor recommended Filshie Clip removal due to complications?
• Have you suffered from Filshie Clip migration, tissue perforation, or an unintended pregnancy?

If you answered yes to any of these, you may have a case.

Evidence Required for a Filshie Clip Lawsuit

To establish a strong case, you will need:

• Medical records showing injuries or complications
• Doctor’s recommendations for removal
• Evidence that manufacturers failed to disclose risks
• Legal expertise to navigate your claim

Damages You Can Recover

Victims may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (including removal surgery and ongoing treatment)
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages
• Other damages related to the device’s failure

The Legal Case Against Filshie Clip Manufacturers

Lawsuits Claim Manufacturers Knew About the Risks

Several lawsuits have been filed against CooperCompanies and Utah Medical Products, the manufacturers of Filshie Clips, for failing to adequately warn women about the risks of the device [4].

The companies allegedly misrepresented Filshie Clips as a safe and effective birth control method while downplaying the potential for severe complications.

Ongoing Litigation: Rebando et al v. CooperSurgical, Inc. et al.

• Filed in January 2022 in Florida Federal Court Middle District
• Plaintiffs claim manufacturers failed to disclose risks of device migration
• Legal case number: 6:22-cv-00177

If you or a loved one were affected by Filshie Clips, now is the time to take legal action. Our attorneys are currently reviewing cases and helping victims seek justice.

Related birth control device cases we’ve taken on:

• Essure Side Effects Lawsuit
• Paragard Lawsuit

See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers have taken on.

Statute of Limitations for Filshie Clip Lawsuits

Time limits for filing lawsuits vary by state, but it’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your rights are protected as statutes of limitations can be as short as one to three years from the date of discovery.

FAQs

1. What Is the Filshie Clip Lawsuit About?

Lawsuits allege that manufacturers failed to properly inform patients about the risks associated with Filshie Clips. Many women have suffered complications such as chronic pain, device migration, and tissue perforation.

2. How Do I Prove My Case?

To establish a strong case, you will need medical records showing injuries or complications, doctor’s recommendations for removal, evidence that manufacturers failed to disclose risks, and legal expertise to navigate your claim.

3. Will I Need to Testify?

Most lawsuits settle out of court. If your case does go to trial, your attorney will prepare you and ensure your rights are protected.

4. What Compensation Can I Receive?

Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills (including removal surgery and ongoing treatment), pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages related to the device’s failure.

5. How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?

The statute of limitations varies by state, but it’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights as time limits can be as short as one to three years.

6. What Are the Most Common Filshie Clip Complications?

The most frequently reported complications include device migration, tissue perforation, chronic abdominal or pelvic pain, Post-Tubal Ligation Syndrome, device expulsion, and unintended pregnancy due to device failure.

7. How Do Filshie Clips Work?

Filshie Clips function by clamping the fallopian tubes, cutting off the blood supply, and eventually causing the tubes to separate to prevent pregnancy. They have been used for sterilization since 1981.

8. Were Women Properly Informed About Filshie Clip Risks?

Many women were not informed that Filshie Clips were being used in their sterilization, making it difficult to identify the cause of their symptoms. Those who did know were often misled about the potential risks and complications.

9. What Related Cases Are Similar to Filshie Clip Lawsuits?

Similar birth control device cases include Paragard Lawsuit and Essure Side Effects Lawsuit, which also involve defective medical devices causing serious complications.

10. What Should I Do If I Have Filshie Clip Complications?

If you’re experiencing complications from Filshie Clips, seek medical attention immediately and contact an experienced attorney to discuss your legal options and potential compensation.

Get a Free Filshie Clip Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action against Filshie Clip manufacturers. With statutes of limitations varying by state, waiting too long could prevent you from seeking the compensation you deserve.

Our legal team offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case

Clients may be able to recover fair compensation and our lawyers can help.

References:

1. https://dockets.justia.com/docket/florida/flmdce/6:2022cv00177/398132
2. https://www.law.com/dailybusinessreview/2022/01/31/products-liability-suit-alleges-medical-device-makers-failed
3. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf/p920046.pdf
4. https://www.law360.com/articles/1596286/birth-control-clip-wreaked-havoc-on-bodies-women-claim