Two new Cook IVC filter class action lawsuits were recently filed alleging that countless patients have suffered serious complications due to the alleged defective nature of the inferior vena cava filter (IVC).

IVC filter class action lawsuits allege that the devices are prone to migrating out of position, fracturing, or causing other serious health problems.

What is a Cook IVC Filter?

An inferior vena cava filter (IVC filter) is a medical device that is implanted into a patient’s inferior vena cava to catch blood clots and prevent clots from traveling to a patient’s lungs.

The Cook IVC filter is small and spider like to allow blood to continue to flow past the device while catching clots. The medical devices are designed to be removable once the risk of blood clotting has passed. The Cook IVC filter has gained popularity with American consumers across the US and in Canada.

Inferior Vena Cava Filter Risks

Unfortunately, patients have reported suffering from severe injuries after having a Cook IVC filter implanted.  According to the reported incidences, the retrievable filters have a risk of slipping out of position and puncturing veins or breaking apart. This can send small pieces of the inferior vena cava filter into the heart or lungs.

Cook IVC Filter Class Action Lawsuit

The two recent Cook IVC filter class action lawsuits referenced above were filed by Wendy K. of Alberta, and Arie K. of Ontario, Canada.  According to the allegations filed by Wendy K., she had a Cook IVC Filter implanted back in August of 2013.

When the time came for the device to be removed, her surgeon discovered the device had broken, causing one piece to pierce her jugular vein and another to lodge in her small intestine, accodring to the claim. Wendy stated that she was informed the location of the IVC device fragments were too dangerous to remove and that she would need to continue taking blood thinners for life.

Arie faced a similar situation with his IVC filter. Arie has undergone at least two failed surgical attempts to have his Cook IVC filter removed and doctors suggest the device may be suck in him for the remainder of his life.  Doctors believe the device may be blocking his blood flow and causing him to experience dizziness.

In the United States, over 200 IVC filter lawsuits have been filed against the medical device manufacturer.  In October 2014 the lawsuits were consolidated as part of a multidistrict litigation.  This places the lawsuits before a single judge for pretrial motions and discovery.  This helps with efficiency and consistency of pretrial rulings.

IVC Filter Lawsuit

Patients who have experienced negative side effects after having a Cook IVC filter implanted may be able to bring a IVC filter lawsuit against the device manufacturer. Consumer protection attorneys can help potential plaintiffs by providing a free IVC filter lawsuit investigation. Legal professionals can help weigh the facts and circumstances of an individual’s situation and help recommend whether a lawsuit is right for that individual’s case.