IVC filters have been found to be highly dangerous for those they are implanted within. The defective medical devices, which are designed to reduce the risk of pulmonary embolisms in patients, have been linked to hundreds of adverse event reports, including 27 deaths.
After being implanted into the inferior vena cava (IVC), or one of the large veins carrying deoxygenated blood to the heart, there is high risk of the device or pieces of the device migrating to the heart or lungs, puncturing the inferior vena cava, or tilting out of position. These are considered serious failures and can be fatal to the patient.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) warned of the risks of IVC filter injuries in 2010. It was later determined that the makers of these devices had not adequately warned doctors about the importance of retrieving the devices in patients. Lawsuits against the makers of the devices allege that they are guilty of poor design, manufacturing, and failing to warn of risks.
Have you or someone you love had an IVC filter implanted to reduce the risk of a pulmonary embolism? Consulting a medical professional about how to proceed in having the device removed from your body should be a top priority. Experts say that it is not a matter of “if” the device will fail, but “when.”
If you feel the makers of these defective medical devices should be held accountable for their actions, do not hesitate to contact us today. Currently, lawsuits are being filed by patients and the family members of patients who have suffered adverse effects following an IVC filter implantation.
Sources: The Legal Examiner | NBC News