IVC filter litigation continues to grow after more patients are experiencing devastating side effects as a result of the implantation of these medical devices.

For some, the problems caused by the IVC filters are more troublesome than the conditions they were designed to treat or prevent.

If you have had complications from an IVC filter, you may decide that filing an IVC filter lawsuit may be in your best interest after reviewing the following information.

What is an IVC Filter?

An IVC filter is a device that is surgically implanted in the interior vena cava, the vein that carries blood to the heart from the lower body. The small device has a spider-like appearance with a small body and several leg-like projections.

The projections of the IVC filter are designed to essentially “catch” blood clots to stop them before they travel to the heart and lung area. IVC filters are used preventatively to avoid any potential blood clots, or they can be used as a treatment if blood clots have been identified.

The conditions that are most commonly treated with implantation of IVC filters include:

• Individuals at risk for deep venous thrombosis (DVT), a conditions where blood clots form deep in the leg or pelvis.
• Individuals at risk for pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lung.
• Individuals with a history of strokes.
• Individuals undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery.
• Individuals with other blood clotting issues.

IVC filters are also used in patients who cannot take oral anticoagulant medications due to poor response to the medications or others who are at high risk for clotting issues.

Inferior Vena Cava Filter Complications

Design defects and flaws are the main concern mentioned by individuals who file an IVC filter lawsuit. Some of the most common complications resulting from the design of the vena cava filter include:

• Perforation of the aorta or duodenum by the legs of the IVC filter
• Fracture of the filter (often the legs-like projections break off and the pieces may travel throughout the body)
• Filter becomes dislodged and migrates to other parts of the body
• Tilting of the filter, which compromises its function and may render it useless

Legal Remedies and IVC Filter Lawsuits

Plaintiffs who file IVC filter lawsuits often seek damages for medical expenses incurred and future medical expenses that will result from complications, payment for physical and emotional anguish suffered, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium (spending time with loved ones) punitive damages to “punish” the manufacturer for wrongdoing, reimbursement for the costs associated with the lawsuit and other relief determined by the court.

In addition to personal remedies received, most plaintiffs also ask for an injunction to make the defendant stop a certain activity. Plaintiffs want to help others avoid dealing with the same life-changing, devastating medical issues that they feel were avoidable and preventable.

In many cases against IVC filters and other medical devices, plaintiffs request that the manufacturer change their marketing techniques to avoid making false statements, update safety information on their products, or launch a corrective advertising campaign so the public is made aware of the true nature of a product.

Legal actions taken against the manufacturer may also lead to the FDA taking notice and launching an investigation into the safety of a particular product, leading to more stringent safety standards and even eventual product recall.

IVC Filter Lawsuit Filing Information

If you or a loved one has suffered complications from having an IVC filter surgically implanted, you may be entitled to legal compensation. Our experienced lawyers will review your case at no charge and can help you determine if filing an IVC filter lawsuit is right for you.