The Cook Medical IVC filter multidistrict litigation continues to grow, as numerous patients allege their IVC filters had broken apart or moved out of place soon after implantation. One of the most recent claims to join the Cook IVC filter MDL comes from a Florida woman alleging the device’s defective nature had compounded her medical condition.

Plaintiff Elizabeth M. opted to join the Cook IVC filter MDL after discovering other patients had suffered similar device complications. Elizabeth’s IVC lawsuit was filed soon after discovering the allegedly defective nature of the device, which allegedly resulted in the worsening of her medical condition.

Elizabeth opted for the Gunther Tulip Vena Cava Filter, which was implanted on July 16, 2009, for typical treatment purposes. She had agreed to undergo this procedure after discussing different options with her physician, and opted for the Gunther IVC filter after reviewing the company’s marketing materials.

She says that at no point in time did Cook Medical disclose warnings of potential device migration or other related problems. In addition, Elizabeth had only used the device for its intended purpose and did not deviate from medical instruction.

Even with this diligence, Elizabeth still suffered the effects of unexpected IVC filter problems. Elizabeth joined the Cook IVC filter MDL, alleging the company either knew or should have known about potential IVC filter complications she could experience.

Overview of IVC Filter Complications

IVC (inferior vena cava) filters are small, metal, cage-like devices that are directly implanted into the vena cava to prevent blood clot attacks.

These devices are designed to trap blood clots forming in the pelvis or legs from traveling to the heart or lungs, ultimately preventing blood clot complications. IVC filters are often prescribed to patients who cannot take anticoagulant treatment, with patients able to choose from either removable or permanent placement models.

IVC filter complications have been reported in cases in which filters made to be temporary have been left in place long after they were no longer necessary. The FDA released a public safety warning regarding IVC filter complications in 2010, reporting that it had received 921 reports since 2005 including:

• 328 reports of IVC Filter Migration
• 146 reports of IVC Filter Component Detachment
• 70 reports of IVC Filter Perforation of Vena Cava
• 56 reports of IVC Filter Fracture

The FDA noted that many of these IVC filter complications surfaced after long term implantation, with the agency advising doctors remove the temporary or reversible models after the blood clot risk is resolved. The FDA released an updated warning in May 2014, stating the temporary IVC filters should generally be removed between 29 and 54 days after implantation.

Cook Medical and other manufacturers allegedly knew of these risks for years, but failed to disclose this information to the public. Elizabeth’s IVC filter lawsuit is joining Cook IVC filter MDL No. 2570, where it will stand alongside other claims alleging similar injuries.

This IVC Filter Lawsuit is Case No. 1:17-cv-03360-RLY-TAB, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana, Indianapolis Division.