The Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter, a small cone-shaped device, is used to help prevent pulmonary emboli—the blockage to the pulmonary artery. The device is implanted in the inferior van cava just below the kidneys. The IVC works by trapping the clot and permitting blood to continue flowing around it; natural anticoagulants then break down the clot over time. While this may seem like a good alternative treatment for these clots, this device has been reported to be potentially life threatening in certain cases. IVC Filters have been shown to have pieces break off and embolize, or cause another blockage, in the patient’s body. Since the device introduction in 2005, it has been updated to correct this life threatening problem. However, further research on this updated device (known as the Bard Recovery of the Bard G2 vena cava filter) has continued to show fragmenting and embolism from this updated IVC device. In fact, one study showed that 25% of patients with updated implanted filters still experienced a fracture in their device. Of those pieces, 71% would migrate to the heart, causing life threatening symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, a buildup of fluid, and even sudden death.
Legal Commentary
From a civil standpoint, our firm has represented numerous families who are the victims of the dangerous and life threatening effects from the IVC filter. If you or a loved one has experienced any of these problems because of an implanted or removed IVC filter, we encourage you to consult with one of our IVC Filter attorneys as soon as possible. A successful civil claim that is pursued against the responsible party will ensure the victims are not burdened with costly medical expenses, and hopefully will compensate them for their pain, suffering, and lost wages for time missed from work. Further questions can be directed to the Fears | Nachawati Law Firm by emailing the lead IVC Filter lawyer, Majed Nachawati at mn@fnlawfirm.com, or by calling our office at 1.866.705.7584.
About the Author
Majed Nachawati is a preeminent Pharmaceutical Products Liability Lawyer with a focus on representing IVC Filter victims and families harmed by dangerous implantations on a nationwide basis. Mr. Nachawati has resolved numerous cases through trials and settlements that have resulted in seven and eight figure confidential settlements. He is on the Grievance Committee for the State Bar of Texas. He is licensed to practice before the Supreme Court of Texas and Arkansas, and is in most federal courts in the nation and holds specific licenses in the Northern, Southern, and Eastern Districts of Texas. Mr. Nachawati is a member of the Board of Directors of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Board of Directors for Public Justice, a Leaders’ Forum and PAC member of the American Association for Justice. Mr. Nachawati has been recognized as a Super Lawyer in Texas Monthly Magazine for the past four consecutive years for legal excellence, in connection with pharmaceutical injury cases. Mr. Nachawati is also a member of The Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Mr. Nachawati can be reached by email at mn@fnlawfirm.com or by calling 1.866.705.7584.
