The Günther Tulip and Celect vena cava filters, manufactured by Cook Medical, are designed to capture blood clots and prevent pulmonary embolisms. However, when the retrievable Cook IVC filter are not removed, they can cause deadly side effects.
What You Can Do & How a Cook IVC Filter Lawsuit Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently evaluating IVC filter cases in all 50 states, regardless of whether you have been injured or not. If you or somebody you know was implanted with an IVC filter, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Medical Device Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Overview: Cook IVC Filters
Cook Medical manufactures several vena cava filters. These devices are implanted in a patient’s inferior vena cava (IVC), which is a major blood vessel that carries oxygen-depleted blood to the heart and lungs. IVC filters are designed to catch blood clots from the lower part of the body before they enter the lungs.
Types of Retrievable IVC Filters
- Günther Tulip: Designed with four legs and 12 filter wires that capture blood clots in the top of the filter while still allowing blood to flow through the vena cava. It has been on the market since 1992.
- Celect: FDA-approved in 2008 with a 510(k) application. Unfortunately, some studies warn that the hooks can become embedded in the vena cava (endothelialisation), which can make it difficult to remove.
What is the problem?
Retrievable IVC filters are intended for short-term protection against pulmonary embolism, but they are not always retrieved when a patient is no longer at risk of pulmonary embolism. After 3-4 months, the risk of complications increases. If the filter fractures or migrates, it may be difficult or impossible to remove. In some cases, the filter must remain in a patient’s body because the risks of removing it outweigh the risk of long-term complications.
Risks & Complications
- Fracture
- Embolization
- Migration
- Bleeding
- Cardiac tamponade
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Organ damage
- Chest pain
- Death
Do I have a Cook IVC Filter Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is evaluating IVC filter cases in all 50 states, regardless of whether you were injured or not. If you or someone you know received an IVC filter implant, please contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit.
Please use the form below to contact our Defective Medical Device Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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