In the aftermath of intense physical trauma (such as an auto accident), one of the most pressing medical concerns facing victims is the potential of blood clots developing in the lower extremities, then flowing up into the heart and lungs. This can cause a pulmonary embolism, which is often fatal.
To prevent this from happening, medical professionals often deploy IVC filters, which are small devices placed in the inferior vena cava, a large vein that runs from your the lower extremities to the heart and lungs. The IVC filter catches any clots and breaks them up before they can pose a lethal danger.
However, recent evidence shows that many retrievable IVC filters are defective, and pose dangers of their own. IVC filters can:
- Migrate through the blood stream
- Have pieces detach
- Fracture
- Perforate
The FDA issued a safety alert for retrievable IVC filters in 2010. If you have one of these devices, you should be aware of the situation.
And if you’ve suffered an injury as a result of a defect in your IVC filter, our experienced defective products lawyers can help. We pursue compensation on behalf of victims like you.
If you need a lawyer with significant experience handling IVC filter cases, please call Kirtland & Packard, LLP today at 310-536-1000 for a free consultation. We’re located in California.