An IVC filter is a small cage-like device inserted into the inferior vena cava (IVC). IVC filters are most often implanted in patients with pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis.
IVC filters are not benign. This means the IVC filter can travel to other parts of the body or invade nearby tissues causing serious and sometimes deadly complications.
Patients suffering from IVC filter complications have reported some or all of the following symptoms:
- Racing heart
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic intermittent chest pain
- Flushed fac
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdonimal pain
- Severe back pain
IVC filters are intended for short-term placement and should be removed as soon as possible after the IVC filter is no longer needed.
C.R. Bard, a manufacturer of IVC filters, began receiving complaints about the complications of IVC filters as early as 2004. C.R. Bard did not report their concerns to the FDA. An internally circulated document between C.R. Bard and their consultant Dr. John Lehmann, known as “The Lehmann Report” was accidentally disclosed and later redacted. It is speculated the report could highlight manufacturer negligence and C.R. Bard’s possible failure to report the potential knowns risks of IVC filters to the public, exposing patients of IVC filters to serious injuries and even death.
During a trial in January 2015, evidence was presented that internal tests performed by C.R. Bard revealed the IVC filters failed to meet the company’s own minimum safety requirements.
Only 10 days into a February 2015 trial, C.R. Bard settled for an undisclosed sum to the plaintiff who underwent emergency open-heart surgery after his IVC filter migrated to his heart.
The complications and risks associated with IVC filters are high. The number of victims who have been seriously injured or even died from IVC filters continue to increase.
Contact us today if you or someone you know has an IVC filter or has experienced problems with an IVC filter. We are here to help and we want to help. Call us at 312-888-6058