IVC Filters are designed to prevent pulmonary embolisms in patients where blood thinners are not a viable option. Currently, these filters, which are sometimes mistakenly called Greenfield filters, are supposed to be temporary, and removable when no longer needed.

However, many patients have experienced their IVC filters migrated, tilted or fractured. The migration of the IVC filter can cause it to be unable to be removed. When the IVC filter migrates, tilts or fractures, it can cause embolisms to reach the heart, lungs, liver or kidneys, causing serious permanent injury or death. Also, when the IVC filter moves, tilts or fractures, it can perforate vessels, organs or the spine, causing serious permanent injury or death.

Most of the IVC filters implanted in the United States were manufactured and sold by Cook Medical or Bard. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued advisory and recommendation opinions to both Cook and Bard about their IVC filters, and on July 13, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bard about its IVC filters.

If you or someone close to you has died, or suffered serious permanent injury, or has had surgery or needs surgery to remove an IVC filter that is or has caused serious injury, please call Phoenix Arizona Mass Tort Product Liability Attorney Steve Leshner for a free consultation.