IVC filters, which stand for inferior vena cava filters, are small devices that are supposed to prevent blood clots from going up into the lungs and protect your health. However, some of these devices may actually be harmful, and in some cases, have even caused death. The FDA issued a warning about the potential risks of these devices, but for many, this warning came too late. If you or a loved one has experienced a defective IVC filter, you may be eligible to file an IVC lawsuit and take action against negligent manufacturers.

What are the Potential IVC Filter Complications? 

IVC filters are designed to trap blood clots before they reach the lungs and are primarily for those unable to take blood thinners. While these devices are supposed to help, many people have experienced severe complications due to the poor design of some IVC filters. Listed below are some of the primary complications people with IVC filters experience:

  • Blood Clots
  • Device Migration
  • Organ Perforation
  • Organ Damage
  • Filter Fracture
  • Impossible filter removal
  • Death

Current lawsuits claim that the defective design of IVC filter devices, mainly those produced by Bard and Cook Medical, increases the likely hood that the device will break and cause one of the complications previously stated. The lawsuits claim these companies did not do enough to warn doctors and patients about the risk of these devices.  If you believe you or a loved one suffered due to a defective IVC filter, you could be entitled to compensation.

Potential Compensation for IVC Filter Malfunction:

Experiencing medical complications or the death of a loved one due to a poorly designed IVC filter is incomprehensible. While money cannot take away the pain, through litigation, you may be able to recover compensation for some of the damages suffered. If you experienced complications from an IVC filter malfunction, you may be able to receive compensation for the following:

  • Medical expenses 
  • Lost wages for the time spent recovering or seeking treatment for a faulty device
  • Lost earning capacity if you are disabled due to an IVC filter or had to move to a lower-paying job due to injuries 
  • Pain & suffering 

If a loved one died due to a defective IVC filter, you can seek compensation the following damages:

  • Loss of inheritance 
  • Loss of financial support 
  • Mental anguish 
  • medical/funeral expenses 

How do you Receive Compensation? 

 In order to receive compensation for the damages previously stated, you have to prove your claim through litigation. There are various claims you may have against the manufacturer, some of which include: 

  • Design defects 
  • Manufacturing defects 
  • Failure to warn defects 
  • Breach of implied warranty 

Proving one of these claims requires demonstrating very specific legal elements, which can be difficult to prove if you don’t have a legal background. Focusing on your health after suffering complications from a defective IVC device should be your priority. An attorney with experience investigating claims against defective IVC manufacturers can help you acquire the compensation you deserve while allowing you to focus on getting better.