An inferior vena cava filter, also known as an IVC filter, may be a life-saving device for some patients who have specific medical conditions but who cannot tolerate oral blood thinners.

However, inferior vena cava problems are also a reality for some patients, essentially causing additional complications.

What Are Inferior Vena Cava Filters?

IVC filters are designed to essentially “trap” blood clots that may travel from the lower body back to the heart and lungs.

The small, cage-like device is surgically implanted into a patient’s inferior vena cava, the largest vein in the body that runs from the lower extremities back to the heart.

Some patients have a variety of medical conditions that lead their bodies to produce blood clots.

Typically, many individuals are treated with oral anticoagulant medications in order to thin the blood, but for a variety of reasons, some of these patients cannot tolerate oral blood thinners.

Individuals who can’t use drugs must have an alternative way to prevent blood clots from traveling to locations where they can do damage.

Patients at risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins of the legs as well as patients undergoing major surgery, such as knee replacement surgery or hip replacement surgery, may have IVC filters placed to prohibit the travel of blood clots.

When a blood clot travels to the lungs, it can cause a condition known as pulmonary embolism. This painful condition causes breathing problems and a reduction in oxygen, and it can be fatal.

If a blood clot travels to the heart, it can cause a heart attack or stroke, which can also be fatal.

Commonly Reported Inferior Vena Cava Problems

Several inferior vena cava problems have been reported by patients who have suffered from complications of the medical device. These problems include:

Organ perforation by the filter – In particular, organs located near the placement of the IVC filter may be affected. The duodenum and aorta are the most commonly reported sites of perforation.

Dislodging of the filter – The IVC filter may become dislodged from its original placement site and the entire device can travel to another location in the person’s body, causing injury as it travels or embeds itself in another location.

Tilting of the filter – The filter must be placed at the correct angle for it to be optimally effective. If the filter tilts, blood clots may be allowed to pass by, rendering the filter completely ineffective.

Fracture of the filter – The finger-like projections of the filter can break off from the main body of the device, and the broken part can travel throughout the body and cause issues in other locations. Additionally, if the filter is broken, blood clots can still pass through, making the filter useless.

Filing a Lawsuit over Inferior Vena Cava Problems

If you or a loved one has suffered from inferior vena cava problems after having the medical device placed, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer to recover damages related to your suffering.

An experienced IVC filter attorney is available to review your case for free and can provide a no-obligation consultation to you to discuss your legal options.