Experienced IVC Filter Attorneys in Columbus, Ohio

Blood clots are a major health problem, which can lead to stroke, heart attack, and death. IVC filters are a safe and effective way to lower your risk. Inserted into a large blood vessel, the device works like a strainer, catching clots before they can travel to your lungs. This device has helped countless people maintain healthy lives, but the FDA has recently recalled certain IVC filters because of complications. Contact the Oliver Law Office today to speak with our Columbus IVC filter lawyer about your IVC filter and any legal rights you have.

Problems with IVC Filters

An IVC filter is essentially a mesh strainer which is placed in the center of the inferior vena cava, which is located in the belly. It filters the blood and prevents blood clots formed in the legs from traveling up to your lungs or heart. Patients can have an IVC filter permanently implanted, or they can remove it later, depending on certain health factors.

This is a lifesaving device. Sadly, the FDA became aware in 2010 that some IVC filters were not working as intended. Instead, the government received more than 900 reports of adverse events, including:

  • Filter fracture. If the filter splits or degrades, it won’t stop clots the way it is supposed to.
  • Failure to open. Some defective filters fail to open completely. Consequently, they do not work as effectively as intended.
  • Migration. The filter can migrate to your lungs or heart, with tragic consequences.
  • Infection. There have been reports of infections caused by misplaced or fractured filters.
  • Perforation. The filter can poke a hole in the vein, leading to bleeding.

There are certain signs that you are suffering from an IVC filter complication. Many patients report feeling intense pain in their chest or heart—something like a knife being pushed in. Others report swelling in their legs and ankles. You should immediately go to the hospital if you feel intense pain after having an IVC filter implanted.

How a Lawsuit Can Help

No one should have to suffer in silence when dealing with complications from a defective IVC filter. Instead, you should meet with an attorney to review the reasons for filing a lawsuit. At Oliver Law, we can seek compensation to make up for any financial hardship, such as increased medical expenses, pain medication, or loss of income. Many people need emergency surgery to remove or replace their filter. If the filter has migrated, emergency surgery could be the difference between life and death.

You should not have to pay for medical expenses incurred as a result of a defective device. We also can seek money for pain and suffering, which is often considerable. A personal injury lawsuit is one way to seek accountability from the manufacturer of a dangerous IVC filter.

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Give the Oliver Law Office a call. Our founder has represented hundreds of patients who were injured by these or other defective medical devices. Contact us to schedule a consultation to review the next best steps to take