TheProductLawyers.com reports on Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters and the mounting controversy over their use in those patients who cannot take traditional blood-thinning medications. The IVC filters are placed in the inferior vena cava vein that transports blood to major body parts such as the lungs and heart. The purpose of the implantation in this major vein is to prevent the occurrence of a pulmonary embolism, which is when a pulmonary artery is blocked by a blood clot. Such blockages can be very dangerous and fatal in some instances. The implantation of these devices is intended as a temporary measure and as per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the IVC filters should be removed within 29-54 days to prevent the onset of medical problems.
Two class action suits have been filed by Canadian plaintiffs against Cook Medical who have had IVC filters implanted in their bodies. These plaintiffs claim that the filters were defectively manufactured and can break apart while inside the body and be transported to other areas of the body. This could potentially cause veins to be punctured or the pieces to become embedded in the intestines.
The first plaintiff is a woman who had to have an IVC filter placed in her since she could not be given a traditional blood thinner. The IVC filter was used as a precautionary measure to prevent blood clots from moving from her lower body to her heart and lungs. When the removal surgery was completed, doctors discovered the device had moved to another location and decided its removal was too risky. The second plaintiff endured two removal surgeries that were not successful, with a third scheduled that was ultimately canceled due to the risk involved. He now says he suffers from dizzy spells since the device is clogging blood flow in his body.
For more information on IVC filters, to ask questions or to schedule a consultation, contact an attorney at Banville Law by calling (888) 997-3792.
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Banville Law
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