IVC Filters

The attorneys of Levy Baldante Finney & Rubenstein are representing individuals that have suffered injuries as a result of implanted inferior vena cava (IVC) filters.

An IVC filter is a type of vascular filter, a medical device that is implanted by vascular surgeons or interventional radiologists into the inferior vena cava to prevent patients’ developing pulmonary emboli (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Typically, IVCs are implanted in patients who have a history of developing blood clots in the legs. Beginning in 2005, the IVC filter became commercially available for patients.  Since that time, the FDA has received adverse reports concerning them.  The complaints usually are that the filters fragmented and embolized within the body. In August, 2010, the FDA released an Initial Communication on the Risk and Adverse events associated with Long Term use of an IVC filter. The common issues dealing with these IVC filters, included device migration, embolization after detachment of device components, perforation of the IVC, and filter fracture. The injuries that result from these issues, include death, device associated morbidity, recurrent DVT, recurrent PE, insertion site thrombosis, perforation of the vena cava, thrombotic complications, and vena cava thrombosis. Studies have shown that the rate of filter fracture increases with the length of time the implant remains in the patient’s body.  When an IVC filter fractures, many are unable to be removed from the body leading the patient susceptible to further injury. The major manufacturers of IVC filters are C.R. Bard and Cook Medical, Inc.

If you or a loved one has suffered complications from the insertion of an IVC filter, please immediately call the attorneys at Levy Baldante Finney & Rubenstein so that we can provide a free consultation with you, properly investigate your claim, and obtain justice for you from the responsible party.