A recent IVC filter lawsuit was filed by a Minnesota man, alleging he was seriously injured by Gunther Tulip filter complications.

The claimant alleges the defective nature of the IVC (inferior vena cava) device caused him to experience Gunther Tulip filter complications. The Gunther Tulip IVC filter is designed and manufactured by Cook Medical Inc.

According to the IVC filter lawsuit, the plaintiff had the device implanted on Sept. 13, 2005 while he was living in Washington. Several years after implantation, he moved to Minnesota and reportedly began experiencing abdominal pain in April 2017.

Diagnostic imaging “revealed displaced struts adjacent to the aortic bifurcation,” a problem with the legs of the cage-like device that help keep it attached to its implant spot in the inferior vena cava vein.

Overview of Gunther Tulip Filter Complications

The inferior vena cava is the largest vein in the human body, and it plays a significant part in the circulation process. IVC filters are normally implanted in patients who cannot take anticoagulant medications to prevent blood clot complications.

IVC filters work by trapping the blood clots forming in the legs or pelvis, preventing them from traveling to the heart and lungs. Doctors can choose between permanent or reversible IVC filter models.

Reports to the FDA show that in some cases, these filters break apart or move out of position once inside.

The Gunther Tulip filter complications reported by patients include the struts breaking off and traveling through the bloodstream and getting stuck in the aorta, heart, lungs, or other vital organs. These IVC filter complications can potentially lead to death.

The struts breaking apart can potentially lead to the filter tilting and moving out of position, which will lead to device failure. It is important to note that these displaced struts are often near impossible to remove due to the sensitivity of their position in the heart.

At this point in time, the plaintiff may need frequent imagind studies to look for any Gunther Tulip filter complications, as long as the filter components remain inside the body. In addition, the patient may need cardiac catheterization or other medical procedures to find the broken IVC filter struts.

If Gunther Tulip filter complications persist, the patient may require emergency open heart surgery to remove the IVC filter. Cook Medical is being accused of marketing a dangerous product and failing to notify the public of potential Gunther Tulip filter complications.

Cook Medical is currently facing about 2,000 IVC filter lawsuits in state and federal courts across the country.

This IVC Filter Lawsuit is Case No. 17-2-13521-6 SEA in the Superiod Court for King County, Washington.