IVC filters (Inferior Vena Cava filters) are medical devices that are small cone-shaped devices similar to the one pictured below. It is implanted in the inferior vena cava just below the kidneys and is typically implanted into patients who are not candidates for blood thinning medications. The filter is designed to capture a blood clot or an embolism that has formed in one of the deep veins in the legs and is at risk for migrating to the heart and lungs where it can cause death. Even though the device is intended to save lives, patients have suffered severe complications because of the defective device and 27 people have died due to complications associated with the use of this device.
The FDA recommends that all IVC filters be removed between 29 and 54 days after implantation because the risks of complications outweighs the benefits to patients after the device has been implanted for more than 35 days. In a 2013 study published by JAMA internal medicine researchers found that while most of the IVC filters were designed to be temporary devices for the patient, only 8.5% of the devices were successfully removed from patients’ bodies after the device was originally implanted.
If the device fails, serious complications for the patient may occur.
These complications may include but are not limited to:
- migration of parts of the filter or the entire filter to the heart, lungs or other parts of the body;
- perforation of the inferior vena cava;
- deep vein thrombosis (DVT);
- heart complications;
- death.
These side effects may occur shortly after the device is implanted into a patient’s body or may happen after several years. If you or a loved one have suffered any of these complications from an IVC filter or is a victim of medical malpractice, call us today for a FREE consultation.(540) 777-4900
