IVC Filter Lawsuit Claims Draw Attention To Adverse Event Reports Noting Dangerous Filter Migration Side Effects

IVC Filter Lawsuit Claims Draw Attention To Adverse Event Reports Noting Dangerous Filter Migration Side Effects. In 2012, it was estimated that 259,000 patients had been implanted with IVC filters. The devices were first approved by the FDA in 1979, but at that time were much less used, having been implanted in an estimated 2,000 patients that year.

The filters are used by patients who are deemed at increased risk for the development of blood clots but who are unable to take blood-thinning drugs. They are cage-like devices which are surgically implanted into patients’ inferior vena cava veins, where they are expected to capture and hold any blood clots moving from the lower legs toward the heart and lungs where they could cause pulmonary embolism. They are supposed to hold these blood clots until they dissipate. The devices are intended to be used temporarily, and to be removed when the patient is no longer at risk for blood clots.

IVC filters have recently been the subject of an increasing number of lawsuits. Plaintiffs commonly claim that the filters have been defectively designed by various manufacturers. They also claim that the filters are able to break into pieces and migrate within the body away from their initial insertion points, perforating veins and organs, and becoming embedded in high risk areas where they could be unable to be surgically removed. During this time, the filters can cause substantial health risks for patients.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration discussed this issue when they released a product safety communication referencing the devices after receiving an alarming number of adverse event reports from patients. Through this announcement, the FDA targeted medical professionals and patients and reminded them of potential dangers of the devices. They additionally asked that IVC filters be removed from patients as soon as blood clot risks subside. It has been noted that between the years of 2005 and 2010, the FDA received 921 adverse event reports concerning the filters. Adverse events reported side effects including: filter migration and breakage, embolization of fractured device or device components, and inferior vena cava perforation. Patients currently implanted with IVC filter devices are asked to be on the lookout for filter migration symptoms, which can include: chest pain and heart palpitations, light-headedness, dizziness, fainting, and unusual heart rhythms. Those who have migrated filters within their body are considered at increased risk for serious health complications including: cardiac tamponade or pulmonary embolism.

The attorneys of Johnston Law Group are currently working to assist other patients who believe they have suffered from adverse health events due to an IVC filter. These patients could be entitled to substantial compensation, and are greatly encouraged to take the opportunity to evaluate their legal rights in the matter. To better assist those who wish to fully investigate their options at this time, the attorneys of Johnston Law Group are offering free legal consultations for qualified individuals.

Source: Press Release (http://www.digitaljournal.com)