Last Updated on September 11, 2024
For various reasons, some patients at risk of developing blood clots are unable to take blood thinners. An inferior vena cava filter (IVC Filter) is an alternative treatment option for these patients. IVC filters are implanted in the veins to prevent blood clots from passing through to the lungs. The filters ‘catch’ clots, which slowly dissipate over time. Unfortunately, hundreds of adverse event reports linked to retrievable IVC filters have been received by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Reports of filters migrating to other parts of the body, punctured organs, and other complications have resulted in multiple lawsuits against filter manufacturer C.R. Bard. In 2015, more than 50 lawsuits were consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in Arizona.
The IVC filter, which is implanted below the kidneys, can be retrievable or permanent. If a physician believes that the need is only temporary, a retrievable filter will be used. The FDA issued its first warning about risks associated with retrievable IVC filters in 2010, when it cautioned consumers and physicians about the potential for filters to migrate or perforate organs. It went on to state that filters should be promptly removed once patients are no longer at risk of blood clots. However, in 2014, the FDA released an updated warning stating that filters should be removed between 29 and 54 days following implantation. In addition, the agency noted that devices are not always removed when they are no longer needed.
Lawsuits Against Cook and C.R. Bard Expected to Rise into the Thousands
In July, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to C.R. Bard for not taking appropriate measures to resolve issues found at two of the company’s facilities. Bard isn’t the only company in hot water, either. Similar claims have been filed against Cook IVC filters. Both manufacturers produce retrievable filters, which are intended to be removed at a future date. Cases against Cook are part of a separate MDL centralized in Indiana. As of December 15, 2015, there were 72 cases pending in the Bard MDL and 172 claims pending in the Cook MDL. These numbers are expected to rise into the thousands. In addition to the already mentioned complications, IVC filters have also been linked to pulmonary emboli and death.
The Goldwater Law Firm – Defective Medical Product Attorneys
If you have been injured due to a retrievable IVC filter, the Goldwater legal team can help you get the compensation you deserve. Not only did Cook and C.R. Bard fail to adequately warn consumers and physicians of the risks associated with these filters, they have not taken necessary measures to address FDA violations that have occurred since. The attorneys at the Goldwater Law Firm will analyze the details of your unique case and help you determine the best strategy for moving forward. It is our goal to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible. Contact the Goldwater Law Firm today for a free consultation.
The Goldwater Law Firm is on mission to help as many people as possible with the fierce, compassionate legal aid only The Gold Standard of Injury Law can offer. If you suffered serious side effects or were diagnosed with an illness because of a defective drug or product, or if you were injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, Attorney Bob Goldwater and the Goldwater Law Firm is ready to serve as your compassionate partner in the fight to seek the compensation and justice you deserve.