It is normal for an individual to want to get familiar with a device before using it. The same goes for the IVC blood clot filter. The inferior vena cava filter is a device that attracts a lot of questions and concerns from those who are to use it.
This is because, despite its numerous benefits, there are many risks involved in its usage. Before using the IVC filter, it is essential to have your questions about the device answered and your concerns alleviated.
For this reason, we’ve prepared all you need to know about IVC blood clot filters. These are the pieces of information you should know before allowing doctors to implant the device in you. Also, it would help to speak with a mass tort lawyer.
What Is an IVC Blood Clot Filter?
An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is a small, metal device designed to trap or prevent blood clots from getting into the heart and lungs. A blood clot is a clump of blood transformed from a liquid state to a gel-like state.
If a blood clot gets to the lung, it will cause an obstruction or blockage. And this will lead to problems such as lung damage and low oxygen distribution to the blood. Doctors use the inferior vena cava blood clot filter on people who are just recovering from accidents or surgeries.
It is useful to them because the filter protects them against clots getting into vital organs in the body. In 1979, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved the device’s use. Since then, there has been a continual increase in its use.
The inferior vena cava filter gets into the body when a medical doctor inserts the device through minor surgery. It is a slightly invasive procedure. Medical doctors implant the device into the largest vein in the stomach. This vein is known as the inferior vena cava. It is where the device got its name.
Risks Involved in Using an IVC Blood Clot Filter Work?
Using the IVC blood clot filter has some risks. These risks could surface during and after a doctor carries out the procedure. The most common hazards of an IVC filter include:
- Infection
- Allergic reaction
- Damaged blood vessel during insertion
- A stray filter that gets to the lungs or heart can cause death
- Excessive bleeding
- Pierced inferior vena cava, which causes pain or damage to other organs of the body
Legal Claims Against IVC Blood Clot Filters
IVC blood clot filters have made significant progress in the medical world. However, there have been legal allegations against the IVC filter manufacturers recently. Because of this, people are warier of using the device.
An IVC filter lawsuit is the legal claim patients make against IVC filter manufacturers. These patients underwent the device’s implantation, and they suffered severe complications afterward. As of now, there are thousands of IVC filter plaintiffs.
The plaintiffs in IVC filter lawsuits, that is, the patients, claim that the manufacturers of this device:
- Manufactured a substandard device
- Knew about the risks and complications of using their products
- Didn’t offer a prior warning to their customers
Some of the defendants to these lawsuits are Bard, Cook Medical, and Boston Scientific (Greenfield). The fact that these manufacturers’ IVC filters were defective means they are more likely to fracture or puncture organs in the body. When this happens, the filters will end up causing more harm than good.
In San Diego, you have a maximum of two years to submit an IVC filter claim. This is one of the reasons why you need to contact a San Diego mass tort lawyer as soon as possible to help with your case.
Rueb Stoller Daniel Specializes in Helping IVC Filter Victims
A mass tort case involves a singular wrongful act that negatively affects many people. In this case, IVC filter victims fall under this category. They need a qualified attorney who will help them with their claims and get them the maximum compensation.
At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we have a team of expert San Diego mass tort attorneys who ensure that all clients’ cases get handled carefully. We give them the appropriate attention. We go the extra mile to ensure that all who come to us get the justice they deserve.
If you or anyone you know has been hurt by an IVC filter, our expert mass tort lawyers are always available to discuss and evaluate your case with you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
