IVC Filter and Defective Device

There are many products sold today that are supposed to make your life better such as cell phones, computers and even a drive thru to make ordering your food faster and more convenient. There are also medical products and devices that are marketed with the intention of helping people improve their health and their life. Unfortunately, in some cases these medical devices may have defects and actually lead to additional problems, injuries and even death for the people they were supposed to help. If you or someone you know has had an IVC Filter implant and has dealt with pain or additional and potentially fatal medical problems because of it, then you need to speak to an IVC Filter and defective device lawyer at the Higgins Firm. We will hear your case and make sure you receive any compensation you deserve for what you have been through.

What is the purpose of an IVC Filter?

There is a vein in an our bodies known as the inferior vena cava vein. It is the largest vein and it is responsible for moving de-oxygenated blood from the lower legs to the heart’s right atrium and then to the lungs. Some people have a higher risk of blood clots because of certain medical conditions. The purpose of an IVC Filter is to decrease the chances of a blood clot moving into the lungs and causing serious problems and maybe even death.

A surgeon implants the IVC Filter into a person’s inferior vena cava vein by making a tiny incision in the neck or groin. This device is used to trap any blood clots in this vein before they can enter the lungs. When the filter is no longer needed a doctor will put dye around the device to make sure it can safely be removed. If it can, catheter-like snare goes into the vein and latches onto the hook that is on the end of the filter. The filter is then covered up and removed from the vein.

What happens if an IVC Filter cannot be removed safely?

If a doctor determines that an IVC Filter is in too deep to be safely removed without causing more serious risks to a patient, then it may be left in their body permanently. Patients who were unable to have their IVC Filters safely removed have holes in their blood vessels or other organs due to the device. The filters have also moved to a patient’s other organs or broken inside the patient causing severe and even potentially fatal damage to the patient’s body.

How is a patient considered for an IVC Filter?

Doctors and surgeons will determine who might benefit from an IVC Filter implant by considering whether they have experienced recurring Venous thromboembolism even while on medication. They also might consider a person who cannot take anti-coagulation medication because of bleeding risks, injury, or a recent surgery.

How do I know if I am eligible for compensation because a defective IVC Filter?

If you or someone you care about had an IVC Filter implanted and then experienced dangerous side effects, you may be eligible for compensation. You should contact a knowledgeable and compassionate IVC Filter and defective device lawyer with the Higgins Firm. We will answer any questions and help determine if you have a case for compensation. If we determine that you may be eligible for compensation, we will work with you to make sure you receive any benefits that you are entitled to by law.

You can contact us online or by calling 800.705.2121 to discuss your case and any questions you might have.