Bard Recovery IVC Filter and G2 IVC Filter System have been associated with serious injuries and even deaths. The injuries caused by failure of the Bard Recovery IVC Filter and G2 IVC Filter System have already sparked lawsuits around the country. If you or a loved one has been injured by one of these defective medical devices, our lawyers want to hear from you today.
BARD RECOVERY IVC FILTER AND G2 IVC FILTER SYSTEM INJURIES
IVC filters, also known as inferior vena cava filters, are medical devices that are implanted in the inferior vena cava vein in order to filter blood clots that travel from the lower portions of the body to the heart and lungs. These clots are called deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. If they travel to the lungs, they can form a life threatening pulmonary embolism. IVC filters were initially marketed to remain in the body for a finite period of time and therefore marketed as retrievable.
The Recovery IVC filter and G2 IVC Filter System are manufactured and marketed by C. R. Bard and Bard Peripheral Vascular, Inc. The Recovery IVC Filter was approved by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2003. It was marketed as a retrievable device, which was also safe for permanent placement within the body.
Unfortunately, the Recovery IVC Filter proved troublesome from the start and several studies published in medical journals pointed to a high failure rate for the device. According to these studies, the Recovery IVC Filter systems were prone to fracture and migration. Most often, these fractured portions of the device migrate to the heart and lungs of its victim; however, they can migrate to other organs. Once the metal pieces have deposited in an organ, grave injury, bleeding, severe pain, further embolus and other complications can occur.
One study, published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology in November 2008, found the rate of fracturing and migration with the Recovery IVC filter concerning. To conduct the study, all patients who received a Bard Recovery filter at a single institution were contacted for consultation and evaluation by non-contrast computed tomography. Fourteen of 16 patients with Bard Recovery filters were evaluated. Final images demonstrated filter arm perforations in all 14 patients, and there were a total of four fractures with migration in 21% of patients.
The Recovery IVC filter was ultimately pulled from the market in 2005. It was replaced by the G2 IVC Filter system, which was modified to reduce filter fracture and migration. The FDA approved this device as a permanent implant device but not for retrievable use. Unfortunately, studies have shown that the G2 IVC Filter system is also prone to fracturing and migration.
Once the Recovery IVC Filter or G2 IVC Filter System is found to have failed, patients must undergo surgery to remove the device, as well as the broken pieces. However, in some cases, it may be too dangerous to remove the fractured components due to the risk of further injury and/or death.
WARNING SIGNS AND COMPLICATIONS OF IVC FILTER FAILURE
Warning signs that a Recovery IVC Filter or G2 IVC Filter System has failed include chest pain and shortness of breath. In most cases, victims end up in the emergency room. A CT scan or other test will be used to determine if the IVC filter system has failed.
The failure of the Recovery IVC Filter of G2 IVC Filter System can lead to serious and life-threatening complications. These include:
- Death
- Constant severe pain in the heart, chest or elsewhere
- Pulmonary embolus
- Respiratory compromise
- Hemorrhage
- Perforation of tissue, vessels and organs
- Constant anxiety or worry over the fact that metal shards are in the organs
Do you have a Bard IVC Filter Lawsuit? We can help.
Davis & Crump is now handling claims for individuals who have been injured by an IVC filter. Davis & Crump is experienced in medical device product liability cases and settlements. If you or a loved one has been injured by an IVC filter, contact us at 1-800-277-0300.
Fill out a free claim evaluation or call us at 1-800-277-0300 to get started.
