A man from North Carolina has filed a Cook IVC filter lawsuit alleging he developed serious device complications that compounded his medical condition. This Cook IVC filter lawsuit is joining a growing multidistrict litigation (MDL), with each of the claims alleging the patients sustained serious injuries from the devices.

Plaintiff Thomas M. and his spouse are conjointly filing this Cook IVC filter lawsuit alleging the medical device has permanently impacted their lives. According to the Cook IVC filter lawsuit, Thomas was prescribed the Gunther Tulip Vena Cava Filter for typical treatment purposes.

The Gunther Tulip Vena Cava Filter is an IVC (inferior vena cava) filter that is directly implanted into the inferior vena cava, which is the largest vein in the human body. IVC filters are small metal cage like devices, which work by preventing forming blood clots from traveling to the heart or lungs.

IVC filters are typically recommended for patients who cannot be prescribed anticoagulant treatment, as they provide an alternative method to prevent blood clot attacks. After the risk of blood clots resolves, it is recommended the IVC filter is removed from the patient.

The Gunther Tulip Vena Cava Filter is no different, with Cook Medical marketing the device as a safe and effective treatment method. With these benefits in mind, Thomas was prescribed the Gunther Tulip Vena Cava Filter and had it implanted on July 2, 2008.

However, not long after the device was implanted, Thomas reportedly suffered several significant IVC filter complications that compounded his medical condition. Thomas opted to file this Cook IVC filter lawsuit after learning the FDA warned against using IVC filters for long term treatment and that doing so could increase the risk of device complications.

Overview of IVC Filter Complications

The FDA issued its first warning regarding IVC Filter complications in 2010, with the agency stating it received 921 injury reports since 2005. These included:

• 328 reports of IVC filter migration
• 146 reports of IVC filter component detachment
• 70 reports of IVC filter perforation of inferior vena cava
• 56 reports of IVC filter fracture

The FDA further states that IVC filter complications were more likely in patients using the device on a long term basis, and that IVC filters are just meant for temporary placement.

The agency further stated that physicians evaluate the risks and benefits of IVC filter removal for their patients before prescribing it. The FDA released a later warning in May 2014, stating that the IVC filter should be removed after the blood clot risk is resolved and that the device should be removed between 29 to 54 days after being implanted.

Even though these IVC filter complications present significant risks to patients, Cook Medical and other manufacturers allegedly failed to warn the public. Thomas’ Cook IVC filter lawsuit is being filed in MDL No. 2570 where it will stand alongside other claims alleging similar injuries.

By joining an MDL, this Cook IVC filter lawsuit will be streamlined through the litigation process and will avoid potential problems like conflicting rulings from different judges.

This Cook IVC Filter Lawsuit is Case No. 1:18-cv-01049-JMS-MPB, in the U.S. District Court of Southern Indiana, Indianapolis Division.