For the past several years, patients have been reportedly suffering from IVC filter failure and had sustained serious injuries.

As a result, numerous IVC filter lawsuits have been filed by former patients and their families, alleging serious IVC filter complications.

These medical devices have been around since 1979, with 2,000 patients opting for IVC filter placement in the first year of its release. These devices have since become increasingly more common with 259,000 patients opting for them in 2012.

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are small cage-like devices that are directly implanted into the vena cava, in order to prevent blood clots that formed in the legs or pelvis to travel into the heart or lungs. Originally these devices were meant to be permanent fixtures inside the patient, but temporary models were recently released on the market.

The retrievable models are designed to be removed from the vein once the pulmonary embolism is resolved, but have been allegedly causing IVC filter side effects.

IVC Filter Failure & Complications

The IVC filter complications patients reported included organ perforation and filter migration, due to the devices reportedly falling apart soon after IVC filter placement.

Many of these patients had to undergo IVC filter removal and filed legal action against the manufacturing companies for selling defective products. Despite the concern over IVC filter failure, patients are continuing to choose to have the retrievable IVC filter placement.

In August 2010 the FDA issued public warning statements regarding IVC filter complications, as well as total IVC filter failure. The agency stated that between 2005 and 2010, over 921 adverse IVC filter side effects reports were submitted. Of these adverse IVC filter complications there have been:

• 328 reports of migration
• 146 reports of embolization or the device breaking apart
• 70 reports of vena cava perforation
• 56 reports of fractures

The FDA’s warning also stated that these instances of IVC filter failure were indicated to occur in retrievable models, which are allegedly not as high quality as the permanent models. In fact, the FDA went on further to say that long-term IVC filter side effects can be dangerous, when using the retrievable models.

The FDA released an updated statement in May 2014, warning patients with temporary models should undergo IVC filter removal, up to 59 days after the blood clots are resolved.

Additionally, the FDA also stated it was concerned that even if the risk of pulmonary embolism is not fully resolved after the device is removed, the complications related to IVC filter failure are more prevalent.

Unfortunately, the FDA warnings came too late to many patients who experienced IVC filter failure, and had suffered serious complications in result. While some individuals have called for the device to be recalled, manufacturers have avoided this by including stronger warnings and instructions.

However, patients who had to undergo IVC filter removal due to device failure, may be eligible to file a product liability suit against the manufacturing companies. Patients who have suffered such injuries, should consult a specialized attorney to determine if they are eligible for legal action.